Chicago Department of Public Health Weekly Media Brief, 05/02/2025

May 2, 2025

CDPH Public Information:    media.cdph@cityofchicago.org


First Chicago Measles Case of 2025

CDPH has confirmed the first case of measles in a Chicago resident in 2025, in an adult Chicago resident who traveled internationally through O'Hare Airport in early April. This patient had rash onset on April 25 and has been isolated at home since being diagnosed. For up to date information on measles and potential exposure locations in the Chicagoland area, visit the CDPH measles webpage.

All Chicagoans are strongly encouraged to review their immunization records or contact their healthcare provider to make sure they are up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Immunization records recorded in the Illinois immunization registry can be accessed using the Illinois Department of Public Health Vax Verify portal.

CDPH offers MMR vaccinations for anyone who needs them, regardless of insurance status, at CDPH Immunization Clinics throughout the city. Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is highly encouraged. Create an account and register for an appointment at getvaxchi.chicago.gov or by calling the clinic.


Mental Health Awareness Month

In Chicago, your mental health matters. CDPH and its partner organizations provide therapy and medication management, respond to our residents' mental health crises (CARE), provide free supplies and resources for managing substance use disorders, and run creative arts sessions all year to further mental wellness, services accessible to all residents of our City. You can find a list of everything mental health at chicago.gov/behavioralhealth.

For Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we encourage Chicagoans to take a temperature check of their mental health. Spending time outdoors, prioritizing movement, reducing screen time, and talking to someone when overwhelmed are all small, effective ways to take care of yourself. CDPH's clinics provide support to Chicago residents regardless of immigration or insurance status, and connect you with the resources you need.


Healthy Chicago Podcast

On the new English-language episode of the Healthy Chicago Podcast, we speak with Maria Pike. 13 years ago, Maria's son was shot and killed while parking in Logan Square. Today, she is a powerful advocate for survivors of gun violence and a passionate supporter for community engagement and community violence intervention in Chicago. Pike is one of the founding members of the city's Gun Violence Survivors Leadership Network, a cohort of community leaders who are gun violence survivors working to end gun violence and its harmful effects throughout the city. If you are a survivor of violence or want to get involved in helping with victim services, visit the City of Chicago website.

In the latest episode of Healthy Chicago's Spanish-language podcast, we're joined by Virginia Morgan, a family medicine nurse with OSF Healthcare. She explains what measles is, the symptoms to watch for, and why keeping up with vaccinations is essential to stopping its spread.

Listen or watch the newest episodes on YouTube, Spotify, Apple and the CDPH website.

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