Measles Case Confirmed In Kane County Resident: Officials

KANE COUNTY, IL — The Kane County Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in a Kane County resident, officials announced Monday.

The health department is working with the Illinois Department of Public Health to identify people who may have been exposed, notify them and provide guidance as the investigation continues, according to a news release Monday from the health department.

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"Our priority is identifying people who may have been exposed, making sure they receive timely guidance and providing the community with accurate information as the investigation continues," Kane County Health Department Executive Director Michael Isaacson said.

Health officials are investigating the confirmed case and potential exposure locations and are coordinating with state and other public health agencies. The health department said people who may have been exposed will receive guidance about immunity, monitoring and quarantine, and officials are monitoring for additional cases.

What to know about measles

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can spread easily from person to person. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a rash.

The rash typically begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body, according to the health department.Measles can cause serious complications, particularly among young children and others at increased risk.

The health department said vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and that two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing the disease. People should check their vaccination records to determine whether they have received the MMR vaccine or have other evidence of immunity.

People who are unsure whether they are protected should contact their health care provider.

Health officials say anyone who develops symptoms and believes they may have been exposed should call their health care provider before going to a medical office, urgent care or emergency department so the facility can make arrangements to protect other patients and health care workers.

An investigation remains ongoing, and information could change as additional contacts and potential exposure locations are identified.

For the latest information, residents can visit the Kane County Health Department's measles update page. For questions, contact the Kane County Health Department at 630-208-3801.