DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) – Health officials confirmed the first case of measles in Polk County in almost 30 years, Thursday. Iowa now has eight confirmed cases in 2025 as of December 17. Officials say an infant who was too young to be vaccinated tested positive. No specific source was identified, but officials believe the child picked up the illness while traveling in an area with a lot of cases.

According to the HHS, the area’s vaccination rate against measles is around 85 percent. That’s ten percentage points lower than the level needed to make the community immune. Officials say the case is a reminder to be cautious while traveling during the holidays to protect vulnerable people.

The main symptom of measles is a red, blotchy rash. Patients may also experience fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. If concerned about measles exposure, officials advise calling a doctor first rather than walking into an office.