Three additional cases of measles have been confirmed in eastern Iowa. According to the Johnson County Public Health Department, three additional cases were confirmed and described as “locally acquired household contacts of our original case.” The original case was an unvaccinated child who had been exposed during international travel.

The total number of confirmed cases of measles in Iowa is six according to the Iowa Department of Health and Human services on Friday.

The Centers for Disease Control outlines that measles is highly contagious and can live in the air for up to two hours after an infectious person leaves the space. The two-dose MMR vaccine is recommended to prevent the spread of measles.

Those who think they have been exposed or who show symptoms should call a medical provider or the nearest emergency department before arriving at the facility. Tell the personnel of your exposure status and symptoms. 

So far this year, according to the CDC, there have been 1,214 cases of measles in the U.S. with 146 hospitalizations and three deaths. The CDC also states that 95% of those who have contracted confirmed cases were either unvaccinated or their vaccination status was unknown.