There are multiple outbreaks of measles in the United States: Measles Cases and Outbreaks (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Measles is an acute, highly communicable viral disease that is spread through the air by droplets from the nose, throat, and mouth of an infected person. A person may breathe in the droplets or touch a surface contaminated with the droplets and become infected.
Measles symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after an infection. Initial symptoms can include:
Someone with measles is contagious four days before the rash appears through four days after the rash appears. If you think you may be infected, call your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms before showing up to a clinic or emergency room to avoid exposing other people.
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 are 97-99% effective. Most adults and school-aged children are considered immune to measles.
Contact your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or local Health Department if you are in need of a measles vaccine.
For additional information about measles, the current outbreaks, and vaccination, visit the resources listed below.
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services - Measles Disease Information
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Measles
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Clinical Overview of Measles
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Measles Vaccination