First Reported Measles Case in Iowa

Immunized family

Iowa has confirmed the first measles case since 2019, joining 30 other states with active measles cases.  Measles is an airborne, highly infectious and potentially severe rash illness.  Measles can be dangerous, especially for babies and young children, adults over the age of 20, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.  As of May 23, 2025, there have been 1,024 confirmed measles cases and 3 confirmed deaths. 

Initial symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, red eyes, runny nose or small bluish spots surrounded by red region on the inside of a cheek.  These symptoms begin 7 to 21 days after exposure.  A red, blotchy rash that begins on the face at the hairline and progressing downward and outward towards the hands and feet can start 3 to 5 days after the onset of a fever.

The best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated.  One dose of the MMR vaccine is 92 – 95% effective against measles and two doses is 97 – 99% effective.  Floyd Valley Community Health will begin offering MMR vaccines to anyone that is unsure of their vaccination status or is in need of the vaccine beginning on June 9th.  Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling (712) 546-3335.  These appointments will be at their new location at 1080 Holton Drive in Le Mars.

Could you be infected?  Have you traveled anywhere in the last 21 days where measles cases have been reported or have you had contact with someone who has measles?  If you think you might have measles, stay home and call your primary care provider directly and let them know that you may have measles.  They will give you instructions on how to be seen safely.  This includes not sitting in a waiting room or coming in the main entrance as you may infect others that may be unvaccinated, such as babies too small to receive the vaccine. 

If you have any questions, you may call Floyd Valley Community Health at (712) 546-3335 or Iowa HHS at (800) 362-2736.