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Southern Iowa measles outbreak grows to 12 cases
KCCI • • health
Key Points:
- The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services and local agencies are managing a measles outbreak in southern Iowa, with 12 confirmed cases as of August 16, 2026, and evidence of person-to-person transmission.
- Health officials are collaborating with affected families and community leaders to identify more cases, provide information, and facilitate vaccinations to contain the outbreak.
- Several locations visited by contagious individuals have been identified, including stores and health centers in Clive, West Des Moines, Des Moines, and Bloomfield, with specific dates and times when exposure may have occurred.
- Residents who were at these locations during the specified times should monitor for measles symptoms such as fever, cough, red or watery eyes, runny nose, and rash, and contact healthcare providers before visiting if symptoms develop.
- Polk County reported the state's first 2026 measles case in July, following nine confirmed cases statewide in 2025.
