North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has confirmed the state’s first case of measles since 2011. The case involves an unvaccinated child from Williams County who is believed to have contracted the illness from an out-of-state visitor.
The individual is currently isolating at home to avoid spreading measles to others. HHS is contacting those who may have been exposed and advising unvaccinated individuals how long to quarantine.
Measles is a contagious, viral illness that can be serious, particularly for young children and those with compromised immune systems.
Measles symptoms often include:
- fever
- cough
- runny nose
- eye irritation
- followed by a body-wide rash
Measles spreads easily through the air and remains contagious for several days before and after symptoms appear. There is no specific medical treatment for measles, antibiotics may be used in cases that have a developed secondary bacterial infection.
Because the majority of North Dakotans are vaccinated, the risk to the general public is low.
People who were vaccinated as children and adults born before 1957 are considered protected due to previous infection.
Molly Howell, HHS immunization director, said, “Anyone with symptoms consistent with measles should call ahead before visiting a clinic to avoid exposing others. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles. Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination is safer than risking measles illness. The MMR vaccine has been safely used in the United States since 1973.”
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing infection. The vaccine is routinely recommended for children at 12-15 months of age and again between 4-6 years. Most adults born in 1957 or later should have at least one documented dose. People born before 1957 are assumed to be immune due to history of measles. Those in health care settings are recommended to have two doses.
Families and individuals should consult with their trusted health care provider to discuss immunizations. HHS encourages residents to check if they are up to date on MMR vaccine and to review their immunization records, available at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or from their health care provider.
Vaccines are available through most clinics, and for families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program offers support through local providers.
North Dakota currently reports an 81% MMR vaccination rate among toddlers, and a 90% rate among kindergarten students for the 2024-2025 school year. According to public health data, a 95% vaccination rate is generally needed to prevent wider spread in communities.
For more information about measles or immunizations, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701.328.2378, 711 (TTY) or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.
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