Iowa HHS reports 50 measles cases and warns of continued spread

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) confirmed 50 measles cases in the state as of Nov. 4, 2026, and said the infections are spreading from person to person. In its warning, HHS said measles continues to circulate at high levels in nearby states, including Wisconsin, where southwestern counties are experiencing an outbreak of hundreds of cases.

State and local public health staff are working with affected families and community leaders to detect infections, provide guidance, and make vaccines available, according to HHS. The department expects that more cases could appear, particularly among residents who lack immunity from vaccination or from a previous measles infection.

Officials identified two time windows at Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage during which other people could have been exposed. The first ran from 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 29, and the second from 10:55 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30. Anyone who was inside the facility during those periods should monitor for symptoms including fever, cough, red or watery eyes, runny nose, and rash.

HHS said people who believe they were exposed and then develop symptoms should phone their doctor or an emergency department before going in and mention the possible exposure. The measles virus can infect any exposed person who lacks immunity. For people who have not been vaccinated or who are unsure of their immunity status, officials recommend discussing the MMR shot with a clinician or local public health office. HHS stressed that immunization remains the best tool for stopping measles transmission.

The state updates its measles tally every Thursday, and HHS will issue a news release whenever a confirmed public exposure could put others at risk. New exposure locations are added to the department's website as they are identified. Local news outlets KWWL and KIMT News 3 carried the state's warning about continued spread.