Illinois health officials have reported the state’s first confirmed case of measles this year, involving an adult in the Metro East area who recently traveled out of state. The Illinois Department of Public Health is tracing potential contacts, with exposure identified at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville on February 8th. Congregants have been notified, and guidance has been provided. While most people are protected by vaccination, those not fully immunized should monitor for symptoms such as rash, fever, and cough. Health officials stress the importance of the measles/mumps/rubella vaccine, which is 97% effective after two doses.
“This first reported case of measles in Illinois in 2026 is a reminder to our Illinois residents that this disease can be prevented with up-to-date vaccination,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “With almost a thousand cases in the US so far this year, the IDPH team has been preparing, working closely with local public health and health care partners on strategies to reduce spread and minimize outbreaks. IDPH is urging clinicians to consider a measles diagnosis in patients with consistent symptoms and alert their local health department immediately if they suspect a case.”
“The key to preventing measles is the highly effective measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of measles vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles,” said Dr. Vohra. “I recommend that our Illinois residents make sure that they and their family members are up to date on the MMR vaccine and all other age-appropriate immunizations.”
Illinois has reported its first confirmed measles case of the year, marking a concerning trend as the disease surges nationwide. So far in 2025, Illinois has recorded 14 cases, mirroring a national rise that’s reached levels not seen in decades. Health officials are concerned, as the United States had previously considered measles eliminated since 2000. The recent uptick puts that status at risk. Measles is highly contagious, with symptoms including high fever and rash. Health experts urge vaccination as the most effective prevention measure. Further information is available on the Illinois Department of Public Health website.