CDPH Weekly Media Brief, 01/30/2026

Meningococcal Disease Update

Since January 15, 2026, seven cases of Neisseria meningitidis infections in adults have been reported in Chicago, resulting in the deaths of two patients. CDPH has performed tracing of close contacts for all confirmed patients and provided post-exposure prophylaxis to those who need it. N. meningitidis is transmitted through direct contact with saliva, but usually requires close and lengthy contact to spread, such as through kissing or between people who live together. It is not as contagious as germs like the common cold or flu. Chicago sees up to 10-15 meningococcal infections each year, typically concentrated around the winter months.

Meningococcal disease can be a very serious illness. Symptoms can start similarly to a common illness, such as a fever, chills, fatigue, and nausea, but can worsen rapidly. See your healthcare provider immediately if you feel sick and begin to experience symptoms such as a stiff neck, heightened sensitivity to light, cold hands and feet, severe aches and pains, vomiting or diarrhea, or a dark purple rash on the body.

Cases are most common among the elderly and teenagers and young adults. For best protection, the state of Illinois recommends MenACWY vaccination for all patients at ages 11 or 12, with a booster dose at age 16.

For more information about meningococcal disease, visit the Cleveland Clinic website.

Stay Prepared for Extreme Cold

As temperatures remain well below freezing late this week and into the weekend, CDPH urges Chicagoans to take proper precautions to protect themselves from the extreme cold. The City of Chicago maintains warming centerson weekdays when temperatures are 32 degrees and below, and libraries and Chicago Park District facilities are open for those who need shelter from the cold. If you're in need of non-emergency health or social support, such as a wellness check, call 3-1-1 for help.

• Avoid unnecessary trips outside.
• Wear several layers of dry, loose, warm clothing.
• Do not let children play outside unsupervised or for long periods of time.
• Pay special attention to keeping your head, ears, hands and feet warm.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, which causes loss of body heat and can impair your judgment and motor skills in the cold.
• Check on friends and neighbors, especially those who are elderly, disabled and/or live alone.

New SNAP Work Rules

Starting February 1, 2026, the State of Illinois will be required to apply new work requirements to SNAP beneficiaries in Illinois.

SNAP recipients who are subject to work requirements but do not take steps to meet work requirements could lose benefits starting May 1, 2026. SNAP participants between the ages of 18 and 64 who do not qualify for an exemption must work or volunteer a minimum of 80 hours per month or participate in certain training or education to receive SNAP benefits.

SNAP participants should take three steps:

1. Determine whether you are subject to work requirements or whether you qualify for an exemption.
2. If you ARE subject to work requirements, make sure you understand how to meet the requirements.
3. Report your current information correctly to the Illinois Department of Human Services to make sure that your exemption and/or work activities are accurately recorded so you can maintain your benefits

For more information, visit SaveOurSnap.org.

Illinois WIC Switching to Similac Infant Formula

Beginning February 1, 2026, Illinois WIC will transition from Enfamil to Similac infant formula. This change is in line with federal WIC regulations, which require state WIC agencies to periodically review and select formula options to ensure the best value and effective use of resources.

To support Illinois families, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) WIC staff has carefully chosen nutritionally comparable Similac options from Abbott. This transition is designed to ensure a smooth shift while continuing to meet the nutritional needs of WIC families.

The transition will begin on February 1, 2026, and will occur gradually over three months. By May 1, 2026, all Illinois WIC families will have fully transitioned to Similac formula.

Locate a WIC clinic near you at chicago.gov/WIC

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