Unvaccinated Iowa infant comes down with measles, authorities say

DES MOINES — The Polk County Health Department, in coordination with Iowa Health and Human Services, has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated Polk County infant who was too young to be immunized.

The infant recently traveled to an area where measles is spreading. At this time, there are no known public exposure locations associated with this case, and no additional measles cases have been identified in Polk County.

Public health officials are actively working with the family and health care providers to ensure appropriate care, monitoring, and follow-up.

“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses we know, and it spreads quickly when people travel and gather indoors,” said Juliann Van Liew, Polk County Health Department Director. “Vaccination is the best protection we have. Making sure you and your family are up to date on the MMR vaccine helps protect infants who are too young to be vaccinated and others who are at higher risk for serious illness.”

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can sometimes lead to serious complications, particularly in young children. Symptoms typically begin 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles is preventable through vaccination. Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide strong, long-lasting protection.

Anyone who thinks they may have measles should contact their health care provider immediately by phone before seeking care in person. Calling ahead helps prevent potential exposure to others in health care settings. Individuals without a health care provider should call an urgent care center or emergency department and explain their symptoms before arriving.

Iowa has confirmed 8 measles cases in 2025, part of a larger U.S. outbreak, with cases linked to international travel and household spread, primarily among unvaccinated individuals, prompting health officials to recommend timely MMR vaccination and specific precautions if exposed.