Let’s halt the measles comeback

Our country is experiencing a significant resurgence of measles, with over 712 confirmed cases nationwide as of April 10 — more than twice the total from 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of this writing, Texas leads the nation, with 541 cases reported across 22 counties, particularly concentrated in undervaccinated communities. Sadly, two children in Texas and one adult in New Mexico have died due to measles-related complications.

Outbreaks have also been reported in Kansas, New Mexico, Indiana, Ohio, and Oklahoma, with cases also appearing in over a dozen other states. And it is a mere car-ride away from arrival in any given state.

Despite overwhelming scientific evidence proving vaccines are safe and effective, inaccurate information continues to fuel vaccine hesitancy. A widely discredited 1998 study falsely linking the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine to autism continues to do harm, despite being retracted and never replicated. This myth persists in some communities, putting vulnerable people at risk.

Vaccines go through a rigorous, multiphase development process that takes over a decade and involves extensive testing to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality. Built on decades of immunological science and adhering to strict international standards, vaccines are among the most thoroughly tested and regulated medical products in the world.

We are now facing the consequences of falling vaccine coverage. Measles — a disease once eliminated in the U. S. — is making a comeback. According to Iowa Immunization Registry Information System, the MMR immunization rate in Linn County has dropped below 94%. Immunization helps protect everyone, including people who can’t get vaccinated — like babies, cancer patients, and others with weak immune systems. But if too many people choose not to get vaccinated, this protection weakens, and more people can get sick.

In Iowa, children must have a valid immunization certificate or a state-approved exemption to attend school or child care. Medical exemptions are granted when a licensed provider determines vaccination is not safe for health reasons. Religious exemptions are also permitted if immunization conflicts with sincere religious beliefs. Provisional certificates are available for children who have begun but not yet completed their required vaccination series.

At Linn County Public Health, we conduct an annual audit for children attending licensed child care centers and elementary and secondary schools in Linn County. These reports help us track overall vaccination coverage and monitor exemption levels, which are permitted for medical or religious reasons. To protect our community against measles, we need to maintain a high MMR vaccination rate. While Linn County has historically remained close to 95%, the downward trend in recent years is deeply concerning.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases — about nine out of 10 unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will become infected. The disease can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and death.

Vaccination interrupts chain of transmission. That’s why Linn County Public Health strongly recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first at 12 months of age, and the second between ages 4 and 6, before entering school. This delivers immunity from measles at a rate of nearly 93% after one dose and 97% after the second dose.

In addition to the MMR vaccine, Iowa requires and recommends other vaccinations. Required vaccines for kindergarten include DTaP, polio, varicella, and hepatitis B. Before starting 7th grade, students must receive a Tdap booster. Day care and child care attendees must show proof of vaccination against DTaP, Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type B), pneumococcal disease, polio, measles/rubella, meningitis and varicella.

Vaccines are the most effective tools we have to protect ourselves and our community. Let us not allow preventable diseases to regain a foothold. We owe it to our children, neighbors, and most vulnerable to ensure we remain protected. Please vaccinate.

For more information, contact Linn County Public Health at (319) 892-6000 or visit www.linncountyiowa.gov/health. Linn County Public Health serves as the coalition chair for the Linn County Immunization Coalition.

Dr. Pramod Dwivedi is the Health Director of Linn County Public Health.