Measles

Measles rash with red bumps

Measles has been identified in Iowa.  Information about measles, the MMR shot, and resources is available below. 

This page will be updated as new information becomes available.

What is measles?

Measles is an illness that can be passed from person to person. 

What are the signs of measles?

Usually the symptoms of measles start showing about 7-14 days after a person is infected with measles.  Measles usually starts with:

  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes

3-5 days after these symptoms begin, a rash made up of flat red spots on the face and then down the neck, chest, arms, legs, and feet will begin to show up.  When the rash begins a person’s fever may get up as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

After a few days, the fever goes away and the rash starts to fade.

How is measles spread from person to person?

Measles is an illness that can be passed from person to person through coughing and sneezing.  People can spread measles for several days before they get the rash until several days after the rash develops.  The germs that carry measles can even live in the area up to two hours after an infected person has coughed or sneezed. 

How can I protect my family from measles?

The best protection against measles is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) shot.  MMR gives long-lasting protection against all types of measles illness. Your child needs two doses of the MMR shot:

  • The first dose at 12 through 15 months of age
  • The second dose 4 through 6 years of age

Measles Information & Resources:

Posted: 
April 16, 2019
Health Department