Joliet, IL – A measles outbreak has extended its reach into Will County, with the Health Department confirming its first case this Saturday. In response, the department’s Communicable Disease team is actively engaging in a thorough case investigation. They aim to trace and notify potential contacts, advise on necessary health precautions, and advocate for vaccination as the primary defense against further spread.
According to Muneeza Azher, Program Manager for Communicable Disease in Will County, “Vaccination remains the most effective means of preventing measles. We urge unvaccinated individuals to seek the MMR vaccine.” She also advised parents of children over one year of age who have not yet been vaccinated to consult their pediatricians.
Measles, a highly contagious virus, presents through symptoms like high fever, cough, and rash, and is particularly dangerous to certain demographics including young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. With a potential incubation period of 10 to 14 days post-exposure, the disease is transmittable before symptoms appear.
The Will County Health Department offers MMR vaccines at their clinics, with appointments available at multiple locations. For vaccination status verification, the Illinois Department of Public Health provides the Vax Verify portal. Additional details on measles and the vaccine are accessible through the CDC’s dedicated webpage. Residents are encouraged to utilize these resources to ensure community health and safety.
