Dubuque County Public Health Urges Residents to Check Measles Vaccination Status
Dubuque County has no confirmed measles cases at this time. However, several confirmed cases have been reported in neighboring counties, prompting Dubuque County Public Health to urge residents to check their MMR vaccination status and remain alert for symptoms of measles.
What Residents Should Do
Residents should:
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Check vaccination records. Two doses of MMR vaccine provide strong protection against measles.
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Contact your healthcare provider if you are unsure of your vaccination status or need an MMR vaccine.
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Contact the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) at 563-556-6200 or visit 660 Iowa St., Dubuque, if you need an MMR vaccine and are unable to receive it through your regular healthcare provider. The VNA can provide MMR vaccines at no cost to eligible individuals who may not otherwise have access to the vaccine.
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Consider early vaccination for infants. Given the current measles activity in neighboring counties, parents and caregivers of infants 6–11 months of age should talk with their healthcare provider or the VNA about whether an early dose of MMR vaccine is recommended. This dose does not count toward the routine two-dose series. Children who receive an early dose should still receive two doses according to the CDC-recommended childhood schedule.
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Watch for symptoms, including fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins on the face three to five days after symptoms start and spreads to the rest of the body.
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Call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility if measles is suspected so appropriate precautions can be taken.
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Contact a healthcare provider or the Dubuque VNA if you believe you have been exposed to measles.
People with confirmed or suspected measles should remain isolated as directed by public health officials. Public health investigators will contact individuals who may have been exposed and will provide specific guidance when necessary.
“While there are currently no confirmed cases in Dubuque County, we are monitoring the situation closely and preparing to respond if a case is identified,” said Allie White, Dubuque County Public Health Director. “The best protection against measles is vaccination. We encourage residents to verify that they and their children are up to date on measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines.”
Tri-State Coordination
Because residents regularly travel between Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois for work, school, health care, and other activities, Dubuque County Public Health is coordinating with neighboring jurisdictions and healthcare partners as appropriate.
The Department will continue working with healthcare providers, schools, child-care facilities, and local health departments to monitor potential cases and support appropriate infection-control measures.
“Measles is highly contagious and can spread easily among people who are not protected,” said Stacey Killian, Director of the Dubuque Visiting Nurse Association. “Vaccination and prompt reporting of suspected cases are among the most important steps we can take to prevent the spread of measles.”
About Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. It can cause serious complications, particularly in infants, young children, pregnant people, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and outbreaks.
Dubuque County Public Health will continue to monitor measles activity and provide updates as needed. Residents can help protect themselves and their community by staying informed, keeping vaccinations up to date, and staying home when sick.
