Owner says business dips at Ottumwa Pizza Ranch after being named possible measles exposure site - KCCI
An Ottumwa Pizza Ranch owner reports a 50% drop in business after the restaurant was identified as a potential measles exposure site. Local health officials are emphasizing that the business is not at fault and are urging the public to prioritize vaccination.
Why it matters
Illustrates the economic impact of public health alerts on local businesses and the importance of clear communication during disease outbreaks.
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services identified Pizza Ranch in Ottumwa as a possible measles exposure site. Owner Curt Hopkins said he learned about the announcement from a relative watching the news. “I got a phone call from a family member letting me know we were on Channel 8 News,” Hopkins said. Wapello County Public Health said the information came from state health officials. Hopkins said the announcement contributed to a 50% drop in business. He emphasized that neither the restaurant nor its employees caused the exposure. “We haven’t affected or caused this illness at all. This is somebody that simply walked through my door who was ill, ate at my restaurant and left. It had nothing to do with us," Hopkins said. The restaurant has increased cleaning to reassure customers.
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