Health officials have issued a red alert at Chicago O’Hare International Airport after a passenger was diagnosed with measles, one of the world’s most infectious diseases. The infected adult was present at the airport’s Terminal 1 on April 22 and April 23 between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., potentially exposing hundreds of travelers to the virus. The individual had received one dose of the MMR vaccine but developed a rash on April 25, leading to a confirmed diagnosis of measles. They are currently isolating at home.
Another case was identified in the same Illinois county, with the individual seeking treatment at a local hospital on April 28. Their vaccination status remains unknown. Health officials urge anyone who may have been exposed to monitor for symptoms and contact their healthcare provider. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash.
This incident is part of a series of recent measles scares at major U.S. airports, including Newark Liberty International, John F. Kennedy, and Seattle-Tacoma International. The U.S. is also experiencing a significant measles outbreak in West Texas, with around 650 cases and two deaths reported.
Officials advise anyone exposed to the virus to monitor for symptoms over the next two weeks and seek medical attention if necessary. No additional infections linked to the airport cases have been reported to date.
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