Measles Case Reported in North Dakota: First Since 2011
WILLIAMS COUNTY, N.D. — North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the state’s first measles case since 2011, involving an unvaccinated child from Williams County. The child is believed to have contracted the virus from an out-of-state visitor and is currently isolating at home to prevent further spread.
HHS is actively reaching out to individuals who may have been exposed, providing guidance for unvaccinated individuals regarding quarantine protocols. Thanks to high vaccination rates—81% among toddlers and 90% among kindergarteners—the general public’s risk remains low, as officials note that at least a 95% vaccination rate is necessary to contain outbreaks.
Measles is a strictly airborne viral infection that poses serious health risks, particularly to young children and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, cough, and a body-wide rash. HHS emphasizes vaccination as the best line of defense against the illness. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended for children at ages 12-15 months and again at 4-6 years, boasting a 97% effectiveness rate.
For expert guidance or to report symptoms, residents are encouraged to contact the HHS Immunization Unit or visit their website.
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