CHICAGO — Chicago’s Division of Public Well being says it’s working to cease the unfold of measles within the metropolis following affirmation of two circumstances since 2019, one in all which was a baby dwelling on the space’s largest migrant shelter.
The measles case on the Pilsen shelter is the newest incident to spark considerations about migrants’ well-being. Maria Perez, who volunteers with the nonprofit Southwest Collective, lamented the shelter situations and lack of house.
“They’re continually asking for cough medication (and) fever reducer,” she stated.
Migrants report diaper, hygiene product scarcity in Chicago shelters
WGN Information cameras rolled as Perez helped ship diapers, Pedialyte, hygiene kits and extra to migrants.
“I come Monday by Friday,” she stated. “I’m right here for 4 hours a day distributing provides.”
Diaz and others level to movies that present what critics say are grossly overcrowded situations on the shelter on the 2200 block of South Halsted.
“They’re all sleeping collectively,” she stated. “They’re not sleeping in separate rooms.”
Dr. Jennifer Grant, Endeavor Well being System’s Medical Director of An infection Prevention and Management, stated the measles virus can keep up within the air for 2 hours after an contaminated particular person leaves the world.
“Measles is among the most contagious viruses that we see,” she stated. “As much as 90% of individuals round an contaminated one that shouldn’t be immune will grow to be contaminated.”
One asylum seeker, who didn’t want to be recognized by WGN Information, stated he’s deeply anxious a few potential unfold of measles.
Learn extra: Newest Chicago information headline
“It’s very crowded,” stated the 34-year-old Venezuelan father of two. “There’s too many individuals in there. The situations inside the shelter are inhumane.”