Iowa has reported its first confirmed case of measles since 2019, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services. The case involves an unvaccinated adult in central Iowa who tested positive for the highly contagious respiratory virus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a growing nationwide outbreak with over 1,000 cases, including three deaths, as of May 22. Measles is estimated to infect up to 90% of people who haven’t had the disease or been vaccinated when exposed to it.
State Medical Director Robert Kruse emphasized that vaccination remains the best tool to prevent measles. “Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also those in your community, such as infants too young for the vaccine and individuals with compromised immune systems,” he said.
Iowa has seen a decline in vaccination rates among young Iowans. According to state public health data, 84% of 2-year-olds and nearly 86% of adolescents between 13-15 had completed the two-dose MMR vaccine series in 2024. However, this still falls short of achieving herd immunity, which is necessary to prevent measles from spreading.
Health officials stress the importance of vaccination to prevent serious illness and death from an infection. They encourage parents and guardians to ensure their children are up-to-date on all childhood immunizations, including MMR, and adults to review their vaccine records for protection.
Source: https://eu.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/health/2025/05/23/measles-in-iowa-case-confirmed-symptoms/83824006007