Influenza/Pertussis (Information just below.)
Influenza/Pertussis
It is the start of flu season and whooping cough is still present throughout the state. Please review the following attachments about flu facts and whooping cough facts. You are able to obtain a flu shot through your primary physician, local area pharmacies and public health. Adult booster doses of whooping cough in the form of a Tdap immunization are also available through your primary care physician or through the campus health office by appointment and for a fee of $33.
Please visit the following websites for the most accurate and up to date health information:
Measles
There have been 2 confirmed cases of measles in Northeast Iowa as of 4/18/2019. Measles is easily spread through the air and there is no treatment for the illness, so prevention is critical.
This is a good reminder to check your immunization record with your health care provider to make sure you are up to date on your immunizations. If you are experiencing the symptoms consistent with measles (fever, cough, red/pink eyes, runny nose and/or a rash), call your health care provider immediately and arrange to be seen safely. Do not go to the doctor's office, ER, local public health agency or a walk-in clinic until arrangements are made to be seen by your health care provider in a place and manner that will not potentially expose others to measles. Until arrangements are made, stay home; do not go into any public places. , even if you question your signs and symptoms, stay at home and call your physician or health care facility first, this includes Campus Health. If you have any questions call Campus Health at ext. 6352. You can also visit the IDPH website for more information-https://www.idph.iowa.gov/cade/disease-information/measles
Symptoms of Measles:
The symptoms of measles typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure to measles and include:
- Fever
- Red, runny eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Rash (starts on the face, than spreads to body and limbs)
- Small white spots inside cheeks
- Runny nose
- Sensitivity to light
Children can be inconsolable. Other severe complications can include: diarrhea, pneumonia (the most common cause of death for youth children) and encephalitis (an inflammation of the lining around the brain).
Protection for Adults:
Adults should know and have documentation of their MMR vaccination or immunity status. MMR vaccination recommendations are detailed below. All adults should check with their health care provider to make sure they have one of the following:
- Two MMR vaccinations
- Lab confirmed evidence of immunity (blood test)
- Proof of prior illness with measles
Controlling the Spread of Measles:
The vaccination or immunity status of anyone with a potential exposure to measles will be verified by public health. (This information is gathered from the CDC and IDPH websites and communication updates.)
Please contact IDPH immediately to report all suspected measles cases. To reach IDPH during business hours call 800-362-2736 and after hours call 515-323-4360 (the Iowa State Patrol will contact the person on call).
What are the MMR vaccination requirements for Iowa colleges?
Iowa law does not address measles vaccination requirements for Iowa college students or staff. However, many colleges have policies requiring vaccinations for entry, including the large universities in Iowa. Not all DMACC students are required to have or show proof of immunizations. If you have a question regarding your immunity or immunization status please contact your primary physician to discuss your immunization/disease history. If you aren't feeling well or notice signs and symptoms that you are questioning-contact your primary care provider prior to going in for evaluation. Campus Health is receiving updates regularly from the
Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). Check the
IDPH website to review the most up to date information and recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions for Colleges & Universities
Mumps
What are the MMR-(Measles/Mumps/Rubella) vaccination requirements for Iowa colleges?
Iowa law does not address measles vaccination requirements for Iowa college students or staff. However, many colleges have policies requiring vaccinations for entry, including the large universities in Iowa. Not all DMACC students are required to have or show proof of immunizations. If you have a question regarding your immunity or immunization status please contact your primary physician to discuss your immunization/disease history. If you aren't feeling well or notice signs and symptoms that you are questioning-contact your primary care provider prior to going in for evaluation. Campus Health is receiving updates regularly from the Iowa Dept. of Public Health. You may also log onto this website to review the most up to date information and recommendations.
Meningitis
The State of Iowa requires that all colleges and universities provide information on the meningitis vaccination to incoming students. If you will be living in campus owned housing, it is recommended by the CDC that you receive this vaccination. This vaccination is not required, but it is recommended.
More information on vaccination:
