New Iowa Measles Case Brings With It Reminder for Families

Over the weekend, the Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed Iowa’s first case of measles since 2011. A second case was confirmed this week. In light of this development, and the growing outbreaks in other parts of the country, the district is sharing the following message from DMPS Heath Services Supervisor Diane Gladson.

Dear DMPS families,

A case of measles has been reported in Iowa. This is the first case in our state since 2011 and is a good reminder to make sure that your family’s vaccines are up to date. The measles vaccine is highly effective (the patient with measles was not vaccinated) and all school-aged children should have two MMR doses by the time they start kindergarten.

If a case of measles is identified in one of our schools, public health officials will require all unvaccinated students and staff assigned to that school to remain at home until 21 days after their last possible exposure to measles. This is a state health decision, and not one controlled by your school or the district. Please make sure your family is protected. Vaccines save lives.

For more information on measles, please visit https://idph.iowa.gov/cade/disease-information/measles, contact your primary health care provider or the Polk County Health Department.

Sincerely,
Diane Gladson MS, BSN, RN
Health Services Supervisor