Officials with the Shelby County Dept. of Public Health say despite the fact the United States is currently experiencing a large, multi-state outbreak of measles. More than 100 people from 14 states have been confirmed as having measles. As of February 6th, 2015, there are no confirmed measles cases in Shelby County or in Iowa.

Shelby County Public Health Director and Nurse Practitioner Calla Poldberg said “This national measles outbreak has brought the protection provided by vaccinations back into the spotlight. It’s always important to keep your vaccinations up-to-date, but during times like this, when we know a virus is actively circulating, it’s especially important to check with your health care provider to be sure you and your family’s vaccinations are current.”

The best way to prevent measles is to get the measles-mumps-rubella shot (known as MMR). Two doses of MMR will provide more than 99 percent of people lifelong protection against measles. Two doses of MMR are required for elementary and secondary school entry in Iowa. Shelby County school-aged kids are well-vaccinated with over 99.9% of students receiving two doses of MMR vaccine. The first dose of MMR should be given at 12 months of age and the second dose can be administered as soon as 28 days later; however, the second dose is usually administered as part of the kindergarten shots given between 4-6 years of age.

Generally, persons who started elementary school in Iowa after 1991 and were up-to-date on all school entry vaccine requirements have received two doses of MMR vaccine. It is recommended that adults born in 1957 or later receive at least one dose of MMR vaccine, or have a laboratory test proving that they are immune and are protected. In addition, two doses of MMR is recommended for adults of all ages who work or volunteer in health care facilities, travel internationally, or are students in a post-secondary institution, if they do not have laboratory proof of immunity.

You can learn more about measles by calling Shelby County Public Health at 712-755-4422 or your local medical provider or visit www.cdc.gov/measles.