Sudden Dangerous Infection Outbreak in Illinois Sickens Dozens

Things move quickly in the world of diseases and infections and Illinois is the latest state to report a dangerous infection outbreak that has suddenly sickened dozens in the state.

The Centers for Disease Control has been monitoring this health situation which is now affecting Illinois along with 16 other states including Missouri, too. One week ago, there were 35 cases of the measles and now a few days later there are now 45 and Illinois is among the states reporting new cases.

This new uptick in measles cases has spiked early in 2024 according to this graph from the CDC.

The measles is a dangerous infection especially for children in Illinois as it can develop into pneumonia. Out of the young that develop pneumonia from the measles, the CDC says "nearly 1 to 3 of every 1,000 children who become infected with measles will die". What is a mild irritation for some can be deadly for others especially the vulnerable old and young.

There were only 58 total measles cases in the entire country during 2023, but there are already almost that many in the first 2 months of 2024 alone.

How can you tell if you have the measles?

A rash will normally appear within 14 days after being exposed to the infection. The health officials at the Centers for Disease Control also say that a person with the measles in contagious 4 days before the rash appears and 4 days afterward also.

Check out the urgent measles bulletin from the CDC for more information and updates on what is now affecting Illinois.