First Measles Case of 2026 Confirmed in Metro East

State health officials urge residents to check MMR vaccination status after potential church exposure.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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State health officials have confirmed Illinois' first case of measles in 2026, involving an adult in the Metro East area who recently traveled out of state. The Illinois Department of Public Health is working with local, state and federal partners to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed while the person was infectious.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in unvaccinated individuals. This case highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations.

The details

So far, one Illinois exposure site has been identified: Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville. Individuals who attended services on Feb. 8 between 8 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. may have been exposed. Church officials have notified congregants and provided guidance, and local health departments are directly contacting people who can be individually identified. Additional exposure sites have been identified in other states.

  • The first measles case of 2026 in Illinois was confirmed on February 17, 2026.
  • Potential exposure occurred at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Collinsville on February 8, 2026 between 8 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.

The players

Illinois Department of Public Health

The state health agency responsible for investigating and responding to the measles case.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

A church in Collinsville, Illinois where potential measles exposure occurred.

Dr. Sameer Vohra

The Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health who urged residents to ensure they and their family members are up to date on immunizations.

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What they’re saying

“Vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles. Two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are 97% effective at preventing infection.”

— Dr. Sameer Vohra, IDPH Director (Chambana Today)

What’s next

The Illinois Department of Public Health is working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the measles case at the Collinsville church and other out-of-state locations.

The takeaway

This measles case underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates in communities to prevent the spread of highly contagious diseases and protect vulnerable populations. Health officials are urging residents to ensure their MMR vaccination status is up to date.