Iowa Health Officials Provide Update on Measles Outbreak, Release Additional Locations of Potential Measles Exposures

Des Moines, Iowa - The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and local public health agencies are continuing to respond to an outbreak of measles in southern Iowa. As of August 21, sixteen confirmed cases of measles have been identified in 2026, 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.

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 healthcare provider or nearest emergency room ahead of time and tell them before arrival that you have been exposed to measles and have symptoms. Measles is highly contagious and can spread to anyone who is not immune and is exposed.

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. Measles case counts are updated weekly, on Thursdays. Iowa HHS will issue a press release when there is a confirmed public exposure that may pose a risk to others. Potential exposure venues will also be updated on the Iowa HHS Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology disease information page as they are identified. When possible, individuals identified as close contacts will also be notified directly by public health officials.