The City of Chicago has offered condolences to Jean Carlos MartÃnez Rivero’s family following a medical examiner’s report. The Cook County Medical Examiner determined that Rivero died from sepsis, a complication from a Group A Strep infection. Despite immediate medical attention and chest compressions from shelter staff, the infection quickly led to his death.
Chicago coordinates medical screenings for shelter residents, including weekly on-site support, vaccination events, and partnerships with community health centers. The city prioritizes comprehensive medical care for all residents, particularly asylum seekers through the New Arrivals Mission.
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) works to monitor and respond to infectious diseases in the city’s temporary shelter system. This is done in collaboration with community healthcare providers and Cook County Health.
Group A Strep is a bacteria that can cause mild illnesses like strep throat, but in rare cases, it can lead to serious illnesses like sepsis. While there is no vaccine for Group A Strep, the CDPH organizes vaccine events to prevent other infections that could lead to more severe disease.