First case of measles since 2011

The Iowa Department of Public Health issued a news release Monday indicating a person in Iowa has contracted measles for the first time since 2011.

Over the weekend, through testing from the State Hygienic Lab, a northeastern Iowan was confirmed to be infected with measles, the IDPH said. The individual was unvaccinated and recently returned from Israel, where measles transmission is occurring.

The individual has cooperated with public health officials. Public health officials are following up with potentially exposed persons to ensure they are vaccinated against measles; however, at this time there is no indication there is any threat to the public.

The IDPH said the event 'serves as a reminder for all Iowans to ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date. Vaccines prevent diseases and save lives.”