Mitchell County Public Health Urges Measles Prevention Through MMR Vaccination

Osage, Iowa — Mitchell County Public Health is urging all residents to ensure they are protected against measles, following recent outbreaks across the country. The best protection is the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is safe, effective, and recommended for children and adults alike.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death. Symptoms of measles include high fever, runny nose, cough, rash and red watery eyes or “pink eye.” Rash will typically appear 3-5 days after fever onset. With international travel and declining vaccination rates in some areas, the risk of outbreaks is increasing—even in communities with previously high levels of immunity.

MMR Vaccine Recommendations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends:

“Vaccination is our strongest defense against measles,” said Jessa Ketelsen, Mitchell County Public Health Coordinator. “We want to make sure our community is informed and protected. Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is 93% effective.

Free Vaccines Available

Mitchell County Public Health offers MMR vaccinations free for all eligible children and adults!

What To Do If You Have Been Exposed To Measles

If you’ve been exposed to measles, immediately contact your healthcare provider and/or Mitchell County Public Health.

What To Do If You Think You Might Have Measles

Call your health care provider and tell them you may have measles. They will give you instructions on how to be seen safely.

Stay home until you see your health care provider.

To check your vaccination records, schedule an appointment, or learn more about measles and MMR, contact us at 641-832-3500 or visit www.mcpublichealth.com.

Together, we can keep Mitchell County healthy and measles-free.

Posted May 15, 2025