Measles outbreak contained
The Illinois Department of Public Health has announced that the largest measles outbreak to affect the state of Illinois since 1990 is officially contained. No new cases have been reported for more than 42 days, which is two full incubation periods.
A total of 67 measles cases were reported during the outbreak, which started March 7, with the vast majority linked to a Chicago shelter for migrants. Cases eventually extended beyond Chicago to suburban Cook County, DuPage, Lake and Will counties but were rapidly contained in all the other locations.
Off-duty officer killed in crash
The victim of Monday’s crash in Coles County has been identified as a correctional officer with the Champaign County Sheriff’s Office.
Jennie Ashley, 47, was the individual who died in the crash west of Mattoon. She was off duty at the time. To honor Ashley, the uniformed divisions of the sheriff’s department will be wearing mourning bands on their badges until her funeral has concluded.
Vote for your favorite state park
The Illinois Conservation Foundation is partnering with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to raise money and awareness for Illinois state parks.
Throughout June, supporters are invited to “vote” for their favorite Illinois state park by making a donation online, with every $1 donated equaling one vote. The park receiving the most votes in each group will receive a plaque with names of each donor who contributed to that park.
All funds raised will go back into the Illinois state parks system.
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