Measles cases rise across the United States, but none in Iowa yet
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) — The measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, helping to eliminate thousands of deaths a year from the disease. But the measles virus is making a comeback this year, with hundreds of cases in the United States since January.
There are 800 confirmed cases of measles in 12 states. The majority of the cases are in Texas, accounting for three out of four reported infections.
Milford getting ready for RAGBRAI
So far, Iowa does not have a confirmed case, but there was a recent diagnosis in Illinois. Even though there haven't been any cases in the area yet, some health officials advise it is only a matter of time before it gets to all states. According to experts, the best way to avoid the disease is get vaccinated.
'You got to get vaccinated. It's safe, it's effective,' said Dr. John Jones, CMO/Pediatric Emergency Medicine for UnityPoint Health – St. Luke's. 'We at UnityPoint encourage people to all vaccinate their children. And as adults, if they haven't been vaccinated, adults can get vaccinated as well.'
Dr. Jones says that the measles vaccination has a 90 percent success rate. To avoid any misinformation, he recommends keeping a close relationship with your primary care doctor and asking them any questions you have concerning measles and vaccines.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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