08/23/2026
MEASLES UPDATE FOR IOWA
As of August 21, here have been a total of 16 cases of measles reported in Iowa in 2026. (In 2025 there were a total of 9 cases in Iowa.) While the state has not named the counties, areas of potential exposure are around the Des Moines area (Clive, West Des Moines), Bloomfield and Ottumwa.
Some things to consider if you have traveled:
Incubation period is 21 days.
Symptoms include a High fever (may be 104 or more), cough, red eyes, runny nose, small bluish spots surrounded by red region on the inside of the cheeks.
RASH: 3-5 days AFTER fever onset. Red blotchy rash begins on face at the hairline and progresses downward and outward to hands and feet.
What to do if you think your child might have measles:
Call your health care provider, tell them your child may have measles. They will instruct you on how to be seen safely.
You should not sit in a waiting room or come through the main entrance because if you do have measles anyone in that area who is not vaccinated (like babies) will get sick.
Keep your child home until they are seen by a health care provider.