By WMBD-TV

BLOOMINGTON – Chicago reported eight cases of confirmed measles, and suspect approximately 100 people to be exposed. Health care professionals said that if you are vaccinated, you aren’t at high risk.

Although cases of measles are growing, 17 states now reported measles, it’s not as quick as COVID-19, due to the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

If you are unsure if you are vaccinated for measles, you can visit Vax Verify.

Measles is a highly contagious, airborne virus. “If there are ten people in a room, and they’re not vaccinated, and a person with measles comes into that room, nine out of ten of those people will get the measles. That’s how contagious it is.” said Heidi German, Communical Disease Coordinator for the McLean County Health Department.

If a person who is carrying the measles virus sneezes, coughs, or even talk in a room, the virus will sit in the air for up to two hours, even if the carrier has left.

“Measles can be dangerous and life-threatening, especially for babies and young children, so it’s critical for everyone who is eligible to be fully vaccinated to best prevent the spread of disease. At this time no Carle Health facility has patients experiencing symptoms of measles. We work closely with public health departments to mitigate any suspected and/or confirmed cases and reduce further community impact.” Harry Croton, Media Relations Specialist for Carle Health Greater Peoria.

The Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist at OSF Children’s Hospital, Mustafa Bakir referred to the illness as a “misery disease.”

“It suppresses, somehow, suppresses the immune system to a degree that the other pathogens, like bacteria and viruses, may cause infections as well.” Bakir said.

Bakir says symptoms start two to four days after exposure, initially with flu-like symptoms, then moving to eye irritation or even pink eye, lastly, rash that starts on your head then moves throughout your body.

Immunization specialists located at the McLean County Health Department say they are always ready to answer questions about the MMR Vaccine.

“Although COVID brought on some negative aspects to vaccines, people are now asking really really good questions… If anyone comes to me with happy thoughts, unhappy thoughts, we’re here to talk about it, that’s what our role is here in public health.” Ana Kuta, Immunization Clinic Supervisor.

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