SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – While concern over a resurgence in measles cases nationwide grows, the Illinois Department of Public Health is taking steps to prevent cases from showing up here.
In an earlier report this week, the CDC reported that the U.S. is facing the highest number of measles cases since the disease was declared eliminated back in 2000.
25 News reports during a news conference Friday, the department declared the outbreak in Illinois over, as only 10 cases were reported, the last being back in May.
They attributed quick mobilization by state and local health departments to treat, isolate, and identify each case for the low number of cases.
While the outbreak may be ended, officials said the importance of prevention continues to keep Illinois safe and healthy.
“Given the fact that measles cases are cropping up all over the country, it could return here, possibly quickly.” IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra stated. “Our public health work against measles will continue today, tomorrow, and into the foreseeable future.”
Department officials stressed the importance of checking up with doctors to make sure residents and their families are up-to-date with immunization, as that is the most effective prevention against the measles and similar diseases.
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