Iowa Health Officials Confirm Measles Cases in Southern Iowa, Release Locations of Potential Measles Exposures

Des Moines, Iowa - The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and local public health agencies are responding to an outbreak of measles in southern Iowa. As of August 16th, twelve confirmed cases of measles have been identified, with evidence of person-to-person spread. Iowa HHS and local public health agencies are working closely with affected families and community leaders to identify illnesses, share information, and ensure access to vaccination. Measles can spread to anyone who is not immune and is exposed.

Iowa HHS and local health officials have identified locations visited by individuals while contagious, where others might have been exposed to measles. Anyone present at the following locations during the listed date and time should monitor for symptoms of measles. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red/watery eyes, runny nose, and a rash. If you think you have been exposed to measles and have symptoms, call your medical provider or nearest emergency room ahead of time and tell them before arrival that you have been exposed to measles and have symptoms.

People who are not vaccinated against measles, or who are unsure whether they are immune, should talk with their healthcare professional or local public health agency about MMR vaccination.

For the latest information on measles in Iowa, visit the Iowa HHS Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology disease information page. This page is updated weekly, on Thursdays, with current case counts. Iowa HHS will issue a press release when there is a confirmed public exposure that may pose a risk to others. When possible, individuals identified as close contacts will also be notified directly by public health officials.