Measles Case Count at 8 in Iowa, Push for Kid Immunization

The number of confirmed cases of measles in Iowa has reached eight.

While that doesn’t constitute an outbreak, Floyd County Public Heath Administrator Gail Arjes recently told the Floyd County Board of Supervisors there’s a state push for measles vaccinations.

The MMR vaccine, good for measles, mumps and rubella, might be a good idea for families looking to get in one more family vacation before school starts.

Arjes also noted the seriousness of what a local case of measles would mean.

Arjes said dose-zero MMR vaccines can be given at six months of age, but it does not count towards the two immunizations required for kids. 

And though there’s been no recommendation adults need to get the MMR vaccine, health experts suggest immunizations if you travel internationally and for students heading off to college. 

Measles is highly contagious because it can easily be spread through airborne transmission, such as sneezing, and can remain in the air for up to two hours.