North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) reports two measles cases were confirmed in Grand Forks County, making it the third county in the state impacted by measles. These are the first cases reported in Grand Forks County. The cases in Grand Forks County are linked to international travel.
Confirmed measles cases in the state have increased to 21 since May 2. This includes two additional cases in Williams County, four in Cass County and two in Grand Forks County. To date, one person has been hospitalized.
All reported cases have involved unvaccinated individuals. The new cases in Williams and Cass counties were linked to contact with known measles cases.
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.
Currently, early vaccination is not recommended in 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.
One individual with measles was contagious while flying into Williston. The public may have been exposed at the following locations:
Williams County exposure locations:
- United Flight UA5293 from Denver, Colo. (departure at 7:41 a.m. MDT) to Williston, N.D. (arrival at 10:22 a.m. CDT) on Wednesday, May 14
- Williston Basin International Airport (14127 Jensen Lane, Williston, ND) on May 14 between 10:22 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
HHS is working with local partners, the Colorado Department of Health, and the CDC Quarantine Station to identify and notify those who may have been exposed.
Exposed individuals who were vaccinated or born before 1957 don’t need to quarantine but should still monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure.
Because the majority of North Dakotans are vaccinated, the risk to the vaccinated general public is low.
“It is essential that individuals without immunity stay home and avoid contact with others for 21 days following exposure,” said Molly Howell, immunization director at North Dakota Health and Human Services. “Those who are unprotected are at greater risk of getting measles and may spread the virus to others before they realize they are ill. If symptoms develop, individuals should call a health care provider before seeking care to prevent exposing others at medical facilities.”
Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed 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.
“The MMR vaccine is highly effective and provides approximately 93% protection after one dose and 97% after two doses,” said Howell. “Vaccinated individuals are well protected against measles, and widespread immunization can prevent outbreaks. We encourage anyone who is eligible and has not yet received the MMR vaccine to consult with a trusted health care provider about getting 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 will be updated daily at midnight.