On Wednesday, Johnson County Public Health confirmed the state’s third case of measles. This alarming report comes after an unvaccinated child in Johnson County contracted the disease following exposure during international travel. Health officials are urging the public to be aware of potential exposure at several local locations.
During the child's infectious period, they visited multiple locations where others may have been exposed to the measles virus. The specific places and times of these visits are as follows:
CostCo in Coralville (2900 Heartland Drive) on June 4, between 11:30 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. Walmart in Iowa City (919 Highway 1 West) on June 4, between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Marshalls in Coralville (1451 Coral Ridge Avenue) on June 5, between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.Officials from Johnson County Public Health are warning anyone who was present in these locations during the specified times that they may have been exposed to measles. The contagious nature of this disease makes it critical for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
If you were in the aforementioned locations at the specified dates and times, Johnson County Public Health requests that you fill out a survey to assess your risk of measles exposure. This survey will help health officials provide appropriate guidance and necessary follow-up actions to mitigate any further spread of the virus.
To access the survey, please click here.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the spread of measles. Health experts emphasize the importance of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella), which is recommended for all children and adults who have not been vaccinated. The recent cases in Johnson County serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of unvaccinated individuals and the potential for outbreaks.
Stay informed about your health and the health of your community. If you have further questions about measles or vaccination, please contact your healthcare provider or local health department.
