Chicago measles outbreak; Wisconsin continues to monitor cases – The Daily Guardia
The Daily Guardian
Wisconsin on High Alert as Measles Outbreak Hits Neighboring State
As Illinois grapples with a measles outbreak, Wisconsin health officials are on high alert, preparing for a potential spread of the highly contagious virus. With 12 confirmed cases in Chicago, Ascension Wisconsin pediatrician Margaret Hennessy is leading the charge to ensure her team is ready to tackle any potential outbreak in the state.
Expressing concern over the lack of experience most clinicians in Wisconsin have with measles, Hennessy is emphasizing the importance of vaccination. Data from 2021 shows that while over 80% of people in Milwaukee County and nearly 70% statewide are vaccinated, there is still a significant portion of the population at risk.
Highlighting the highly contagious nature of measles, Hennessy warns that the virus can linger in shared airspaces for up to two hours. She fears that if people refuse to get vaccinated, the virus could easily spread to Wisconsin.
Symptoms of measles include a cough, runny nose, fever, and a characteristic rash starting behind the ears. Children’s Wisconsin is also on high alert for suspect cases, with clinicians monitoring the rising cases nationwide.
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated at least two weeks before traveling, as the last confirmed case of measles in Milwaukee was in October 2023. As the situation continues to evolve, Wisconsin residents are urged to ensure they are up to date on their vaccinations to protect themselves and their community from this potentially deadly virus.
