Residents at a city-run shelter in Pilsen were abruptly awakened at 1 a.m. on Friday by health department workers announcing a measles outbreak. The news was particularly alarming as a confirmed case of measles was found in a young child at the shelter.
Residents were informed that there would be a 10-day quarantine in place, and anyone who left would lose their place at the shelter. Health department workers began assessing residents’ vaccination status to determine who could leave the shelter. Those who were vaccinated were allowed to leave starting late morning on Friday.
However, concerns were raised about the conditions at the shelter, including unsanitary living conditions and inedible food. The sudden announcement of a quarantine caused panic and fear among residents and new arrivals.
City officials arrived with police at 1 a.m. and locked the shelter’s doors until 9:30 a.m. Residents were interviewed and offered vaccinations if they hadn’t been vaccinated. City agencies promised to provide masks, protective equipment, and meals for residents who had to stay.
Measles is rare in Chicago due to high vaccination rates, but cases have been increasing in the U.S. It is crucial for the population to protect those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and those with weakened immune systems. The measles vaccine is widely available for free worldwide.
Symptoms of measles include rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. Residents at the shelter are understandably worried about the quarantine and the quality of meals being provided. The situation serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and proper healthcare in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
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