According to the CDC, as of March 14, a total of 301 measles cases have been reported in 2025 across 15 states in the United States, including two deaths, the first U.S. measles deaths in over a decade.  

Measles is highly contagious; if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are unvaccinated. It can also cause severe disease, long-term complications, and—in rare cases—death.   

The best protection against measles is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which generally provides lifelong protection.   

All Cook County residents are encouraged to review their immunization records or contact their healthcare provider to make sure they are up to date on MMR vaccine.   

If unsure, you can check your vaccine history. Immunization records maintained in the Illinois immunization registry can be accessed using the Illinois Department of Public Health Vax Verify portal.   

If you were vaccinated before 1968, check with your healthcare provider about a revaccination. A blood test can confirm if you still have immunity. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure.  

MMR is part of the routine vaccination schedule for children. The first dose should be given between 12-15 months of age and the second between the ages of 4-6 years old. One dose of the immunization is required for daycare and preschool/pre-K attendance in Illinois, and two doses (separated by at least 28 days) are required for K-12 school attendance.   

Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles. As measles is circulating in the U.S., individuals traveling internationally or to domestic locations with measles outbreaks should ensure full protection with MMR vaccine prior to travel: infants (six months to 12 months old) should receive one shot, and anyone older than 12 months should receive two shots for full protection before traveling.   

If you have just one dose, have a weakened immune system, or have been exposed to an outbreak, consult a healthcare provider about immunization.  

For those with private insurance or Medicaid/Medicare:    

• Visit your healthcare provider or a local in-network pharmacy. It is recommended that individuals call ahead to ensure their provider or pharmacy has doses available prior to scheduling an appointment.    

• Anyone unsure which providers are in-network should call their health insurance company before getting vaccinated to avoid out-of-network charges.     

• Visit vaccines.gov or vacunas.gov (Spanish) to find a vaccine provider.    

• Be sure to bring your insurance card, if you have one. Most health plans cover the full cost of MMR vaccine.   

For those who are uninsured or under-insured:     

• In Cook County residents can make an appointment to get vaccinated at one of Cook County Health’s locations by calling 312-864-0200.   

• Cook County Health offers MMR vaccinations at no cost for eligible children for the Vaccines For Children program.   

• In the City of Chicago, visit one of the four CDPH Immunization Clinics. 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.   

Other Healthcare Options: 

• Those looking for additional medical support beyond immunization, can visit a Federally Qualified Health Center. Findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov will direct you to services near you.    

1. MMR is part of the routine vaccination schedule for children-

The first dose should be given between 12-15 months of age and the second between the ages of 4-6 years old. One dose of the immunization is required for daycare and preschool/pre-K attendance in Illinois, and two doses (separated by at least 28 days) are required for K-12 school attendance.  

2. Check Your Vaccination History –

The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine that generally provides lifelong protection. If unsure, you can check your vaccine history. Immunization records recorded in the Illinois immunization registry can be accessed using the Illinois Department of Public Health Vax Verify portal.   

3. Consider Your Age & Timing –

If you were vaccinated before 1968, check with your healthcare provider about a revaccination. A blood test can confirm if you still have immunity. Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re unsure. 

4. Assess Exposure & Risk –

If you got just one dose, have a weakened immune system, or have been exposed to an outbreak, consult a healthcare provider about immunization.