The Pekin Community School District has issued a measles update for families as Iowa’s ongoing outbreak continues, with 17 confirmed cases across multiple areas of the state, according to a release from the district.
District officials emphasized the severity of the disease, noting that 9 out of 10 people exposed to measles without immunity will become infected, and 1 in 5 who get sick will be hospitalized. Pneumonia is the most common cause of death in children from measles, with an estimated 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 children dying from the disease. Signs and symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis.
The district also outlined its quarantine policy. Students and staff who cannot prove immunity and are exposed to measles will be required to quarantine from school for 21 days after the last confirmed case during the infectious period. If measles is suspected or confirmed in an individual, they must remain out of school until they are no longer considered contagious and their symptoms have improved, with the return-to-school date determined in coordination with public health officials.
On vaccination, the district noted that children over the age of 6 months can receive two doses of the MMR vaccine and encouraged families to speak with their healthcare provider if they have questions.
