Public Health
5 articles
How Chicago Aims to Close a 16-Year Life Expectancy Gap Through Urban Planning
Chicago is employing urban planning as a public health intervention to address a stark 16-year life expectancy gap between its neighborhoods. The city's strategy involves citywide health equity plans and localized interventions, with progress tracked via the Chicago Health Atlas.
Chicago braces for extreme heat index near 100 degrees
Chicago faces three consecutive days with a heat index peaking between 100-105 degrees, a level the National Weather Service classifies as an Extreme Heat Warning.
Traveler with measles visited O'Hare Airport on June 17
For nearly four hours on the morning of June 17, an international traveler confirmed to have measles moved through O'Hare's Terminal 5, potentially exposing hundreds to the highly contagious virus.
Chicago Area Sees 17 Severe West Nile Virus Cases
Illinois has reported its first human West Nile virus-related death in 2023: an individual in their 90s from suburban Cook County, confirmed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (dph) .
31st Street Beach Swim Advisory Issued Due to High Bacteria
At Chicago's 31st Street Beach, a yellow swim advisory flag was implemented on Thursday, May 28, 2026, when bacteria levels exceeded 235 CFU, according to City of Chicago Beach Lab Data .