Southern Illinois Measles Case Prompts Public Exposure Warning

The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed an adult case of measles in the state - the first in 2025.

Illinois Confirms First 2025 Measles Case

While many Americans are vaccinated against the measles virus, outbreaks do still occur. Currently, there have been over 800 confirmed measles cases reported in 26 states, including Illinois. Three of the reported cases across the nation have resulted in death.

Why Measles Cases Are on the Rise Again

What causes an increase in measles cases in America? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) attributes it to those who travel abroad and may bring the virus into the United States. They also say unvaccinated populations can contribute to a rise in cases as well.

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Measles Symptoms: What to Watch For

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus, often known for the red, splotchy rash that it causes. In addition to the rash commonly seen in those infected by the virus, Measles also causes respiratory issues along with other symptoms like high fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes.

When Do Measles Symptoms Appear After Exposure?

Symptoms typically take seven to fourteen days to appear after a person becomes infected by the virus. The CDC says that when the rash appears, usually 3 to 5 days after the initial onset of other symptoms, fevers can spike to more than 104 degrees.

Measles Has Been a Preventable Disease Since 1963

Thanks to modern medicine, measles is a preventable disease. The measles vaccine program was first introduced in 1963 in the United States. In the years prior, it is estimated that 3 to 4 million people in America contracted the measles virus each year, while only approximately 500,000 cases were reported annually. The measles virus contributed to an average of 48,000 hospitalizations, 400 to 500 deaths, and approximately 1,000 cases of encephalitis each year.

Who’s Most at Risk of Infection

The vaccine is considered to be 97% effective in preventing infection by the measles virus. However, infants are not typically vaccinated before 12 months of age. Because of this, young infants, as well as children and adults who have not been vaccinated, are at greater risk of contracting the illness.

Measles Spreads Easily and Lingers in the Air

Measles is highly contagious and easily communicable. Those infected with the disease can spread it to others for "four days before through four days after" the first appearance of the rash. Since the virus lives within the mucus and throat of an infected person, it becomes aerosolized when they cough or sneeze, distributing the virus into the air around them. The measles virus can live in the air for two hours after an infected person leaves a space.

7 Marion, IL Locations with Possible Exposure

According to reports from the Illinois Department of Public Health, the state has now experienced its first confirmed case of measles for 2025. The virus was confirmed via laboratory testing conducted on an adult in "far southern Illinois," according to an April 23, 2025, press release from the IDPH.

In an updated release published April 24, 2025, the IDPH has now revealed possible exposure of the virus to the public. They say they have now confirmed seven locations where a measles exposure may have occurred between April 7 - 15, 2025.

• Don Sol Restaurant, Marion IL
• Legacy Fitness, Marion IL
• Walmart, Marion IL
• Kroger Grocery, Marion IL
• Wonder Wash Laundry, Marion IL
• Easy Coin Laundry, Marion IL
• Small Star Laundry, Marion IL

What to Do If You Think You’ve Been Exposed

Anyone who may have visited any of these locations between April 7th and April 15th may have been exposed to the measles virus, and health officials recommend monitoring themselves for symptoms for a period of 21 days after the suspected exposure.

If you believe that you or your child have been exposed to the measles virus, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. IDHP also recommends that the public check their immunization records to ensure they are protected from the virus.

[Source: Illinois Department of Public Health; Centers for Disease Control and Preventions]