A study reveals that Cook County is at risk of a measles outbreak due to international travelers to O & # 39; Hare

CHICAGO (WLS) – Cook County is at high risk of a measles outbreak, according to a new study conducted by a researcher from the University of Texas.

So far this year, Illinois has had seven measles cases. Researchers say Cook County is at risk, especially because of the number of international airline passengers traveling through Chicago.

"The majority of the new cases we see are international travelers, so it's the main reason why the Chicagoland area, in Cook County, is on the radar," said Dr. Rachel Rubin, responsible medical services of the Cook County Public Health Department.

According to the study, travelers from India, China, Mexico, Japan, Ukraine and the Philippines pose the highest risk.

According to the CDC, the virus is so contagious that 90% of people surrounding an infected traveler could also catch the virus – but only if they are not vaccinated. At an airport, it gives you an idea of ​​how quickly it could spread.

"It does not mean you can not travel, it does not mean you can not go through O. Hare, it does not mean you're going to be exposed to measles, but that means you have to be protected. and your children are protected by vaccination, "said Dr. Rubin.

"You control if you are vaccinated, and that is what you can do best.Unfortunately, you can not control the other side.You just do not know what other person will come with what?" said the traveler Harshil Sheth.