06-05-2025
Pediatrician: Measles outbreak preventable in Iowa
In Scott County, 88.8% of kindergarteners are fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to a news release.
(Getty Images)
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, and to prevent spread, at least 95% of a community needs to be fully vaccinated. Iowa is not at herd immunity levels in vaccination rates.
As of Monday, there are confirmed measles cases in 24 states.
'The bottom line is we want to protect Iowans,' said Elizabeth Faber, Iowa Immunizes Coalition director. 'Measles is incredibly contagious, so of course, we are advocating for parents to ensure their children are vaccinated. We know parents are incredibly responsible and want the best for their children. We're glad there has been a slight increase in vaccinations as compared to the previous year.'
In Iowa, only a few counties out of the state's 99 counties boast rates of 95% or more kindergartners having the two doses of MMR vaccinations that makes them fully vaccinated against measles.
The CDC notes that children should get two doses of MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. To reach full vaccination status against measles, children are able to get their second dose early.
Parents should consult with their child's pediatrician about their child's vaccinations as well as any questions they have about measles immunizations, the release says.
'Measles is one of the most contagious diseases. Unless there are active efforts to slow it down, it has a good chance to keep spreading and that increases the chance it will impact Iowa. The good news is the vaccine is very effective so it's easily preventable,' said Dr. Nathan Boonstra, a Des Moines-based pediatrician and chair of the Iowa Immunizes Coalition.
Vaccinating a child not only helps protect that child from diseases and serious health complications, it also helps protect those in the community who are immuno-compromised, such as those undergoing cancer treatments.
Teens and adults should ensure they are up to date on their MMR vaccination. In Iowa, 85.7% of adolescents (13-15-years-old) had both doses of the MMR vaccination to protect against measles. That number rose slightly over the past five years. Adults should speak with their healthcare provider to ensure their vaccinations are up to date including their vaccinations against measles., the release says.
To learn more about vaccinations in Iowa, visit here. Your child may be eligible for free vaccines through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. To find a VFC provider near you, visit here.
,Adults can check with their local public health agency for eligibility.
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