Iowa Health and Human Services (IHHS) confirmed Thursday that a measles outbreak in the southern part of the state has grown to 17 confirmed cases, two more than the previous count. The agency also announced a new possible exposure site.
New exposure location
Anyone who shopped at Sunnyside Grocery, 22422 County Road 63 in Bloomfield, on Saturday, Aug. 15, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. may have been exposed to the virus. IHHS urges those individuals to monitor for symptoms and contact their health care provider if they develop fever, rash, or other signs of measles.
Other locations under investigation
The department provided a full list of venues where potential exposure occurred, along with dates and times. These include:
- Natural Grocer’s in Clive – July 28, 2:30‑5 p.m.
- Vero Health Center in West Des Moines – July 28, 3:30‑6:30 p.m.
- Office Depot in West Des Moines – July 28, 5‑7:30 p.m.
- Menards in Clive – July 28, 6‑8:30 p.m.
- Menards in Des Moines – July 28, 7‑9:30 p.m.
- Wells Hometown Drug in Bloomfield – July 30, 4:30‑7 p.m.
- JR Feed and Supply in Bloomfield – Aug. 9, 8:30 a.m.‑6 p.m.
- Pizza Ranch in Ottumwa – Aug. 14, 12‑3 p.m.
IHHS has posted an interactive map and a detailed schedule of these sites on its website for residents to review.
What to do if you were exposed
People who think they may have been at any of the listed locations should watch for measles symptoms, which typically appear 10‑14 days after exposure. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive red rash that spreads over the body. If symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly and inform health officials of the possible exposure site.
The agency also reminds parents and guardians to verify that children are up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, as vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent further spread.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
