Illinois health officials have identified the state’s first measles case of 2025, involving an adult in southern Illinois. While the risk to the broader community is described as low, the Department of Public Health urges everyone to ensure their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations are current. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation for any additional exposures and have initiated contact tracing. Symptoms of measles often include fever, rash, and cough.
Most adults and older children have protection thanks to routine childhood immunizations, but infants under 12 months and people with specific health conditions remain at higher risk. Symptoms of measles may take up to three weeks to appear after contact with an infected person. Anyone suspecting exposure should consult with their health care provider about their vaccination status. If symptoms develop, contacting a medical professional by phone or email before visiting a facility helps prevent further spread and ensures necessary precautions are taken for everyone’s safety.
For more information about measles, contact your health care provider or visit the Illinois Department of Public Health webpage on measles or the CDC’s measles site.
“This first reported case of measles in Illinois in 2025 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 hundreds of cases being reported nationally, we have been working closely with our local public health and health care partners to prepare for any potential measles cases in Illinois. IDPH is urging medical providers 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.”
