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Southern Iowa restaurant struggling after being listed as possible measles exposure site
KCCI • • general
Key Points:
- The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services identified Pizza Ranch in Ottumwa as a possible measles exposure site after an infected individual visited the restaurant on August 14, 2026.
- Pizza Ranch owner Curt Hopkins reported a 50% drop in business following the announcement but emphasized that neither the restaurant nor its employees caused the exposure.
- Health officials stressed that possible exposure does not guarantee infection and highlighted that unvaccinated individuals face the highest risk of contracting measles, with over a 90% probability if unvaccinated.
- People suspecting they have measles are advised to call healthcare providers before seeking in-person treatment to avoid further exposure in waiting rooms.
- Additional possible exposure sites in Iowa on July 28 and subsequent dates include locations in Clive, West Des Moines, Des Moines, Bloomfield, and Ottumwa, with no immediate plans for a vaccination clinic but potential for future action if needed.
