North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) confirms the first reported measles case in Burke County, making it the fourth county in the state impacted by measles. Confirmed measles cases in the state have increased to 28 since May 2.
The affected individual traveled frequently to Williams County before the illness.
Currently, early vaccination is not recommended in Burke, Cass or Grand Forks counties. Investigations show no evidence of community spread in those areas. HHS will update vaccination guidance for counties as new data becomes available.
Due to confirmed community transmission in Williams County, HHS continues to recommend early and accelerated MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination for individuals living in or traveling to Williams County.
Based on HHS investigation, the public may have been exposed at the following locations in neighboring Divide County.
Additional Exposure Locations:
• Lindsey’s Grocery Store, 211 Main St. S., Crosby, N.D. on Monday, May 26, between 3 and 5:30 p.m.
• Dollar General, 1108 Fourth St. S.E., Crosby, N.D. on Monday, May 26 between 3:20 and 5:45 p.m.
Exposed individuals who were vaccinated against measles or born before 1957 and therefore considered immune due to natural exposure do not need to quarantine. However, they should still monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure.
Unvaccinated individuals who are not protected against measles should quarantine for 21 days following exposure and should monitor for symptoms. If symptoms develop, individuals should call a health care provider before seeking care to prevent exposing others at medical facilities.
Because the majority of North Dakotans are vaccinated against measles, the risk to the vaccinated general public is low.
“This is the highest number of measles cases reported in North Dakota since 1978, when 211 cases occurred,” said HHS Immunization Director Molly Howell. “The MMR vaccine is highly effective and far safer than the risks associated with measles complications. Vaccination is recommended for anyone born in 1957 or later who is 12 months of age or older. Please speak with a trusted health care provider about getting vaccinated.”
Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune to measles due to natural exposure. Adults born in 1957 or later should ensure they have received at least one documented dose of MMR.
MMR is routinely recommended starting at 12-15 months of age with a second dose at 4-6 years of age. Children who have already received two post-12-month doses of MMR are considered fully vaccinated.
Individuals unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to consult their health care provider. Immunization records can be reviewed at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or by contacting a provider.
Vaccines are available through most clinics. For families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program offers support through local providers.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and a rash that spreads across the body. The virus spreads through the air and can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left. People with measles are contagious before and after symptoms appear, increasing the risk of unintentional spread.
There is no specific medical cure for measles. Treatment is supportive and focused on relieving symptoms. Complications, such as pneumonia, should be managed under the care of a health care provider.
For more information about measles or immunizations, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701.328.2378, 711 (TTY) or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles. The measles dashboard is updated daily at midnight.