2 new measles cases confirmed in Cass County; 1 hospitalized

Two new measles cases were confirmed in Cass County on Sunday, bringing North Dakota’s total cases to 11 since May 2, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services.

The department reported both people were unvaccinated and one was hospitalized as a result of the disease. Both people are believed to have contracted measles from international travel.

Two Essentia Health clinics in the Fargo area were exposed to the disease and public health officials said unvaccinated individuals present at those facilities should quarantine themselves for 21 days to monitor for symptoms.

The two clinics exposed were:

• Essentia Health – The Lights West Fargo Clinic from 2:30 to 6 p.m., May 7. The entrance to the clinic is shared with Bar Down Sports Bar and Restaurant.
• Essentia Health Walk-in Care Clinic from 5:30 to 8 p.m., May 9.

Some schools cancel band trip to Williston because of measles cases; parade to go on

Last week, public health officials reported three schools in Williston were exposed to measles that resulted in about 150 unvaccinated students isolating at home to monitor for symptoms. Nine measles cases have been confirmed in Williams County since May 2.

The health department recommends children between 12-15 months old should receive their first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine and a second dose between 4-6 years of age.

“People who are vaccinated and exposed to measles are not likely to develop the disease,” said Molly Howell, immunization director for HHS. “MMR vaccination is critical to preventing the spread of measles in the community. Anyone who is eligible and has not yet been vaccinated is encouraged to contact a trusted health care provider about MMR vaccination.”

Howell said the MMR vaccine is 93% effective after one dose and 97% effective after a second dose.

Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed immune due to natural exposure, the department said.

Immunization records for North Dakota residents can be reviewed through the HHS website or by contacting a health care provider.

Measles symptoms can develop up to 21 days after exposure. The symptoms are:

• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Eye irritation
• Body-wide rash

The measles virus is spread through the air and people remain contagious for several days before and after the first symptoms appear, the department said. They added there is no specific medical treatment for measles, but antibiotics may be used in cases resulting in a secondary bacterial infection.

The risk of measles to the general public is low due to a majority of North Dakotans being immunized against the disease.

Vaccines are available through most clinics. For families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children Program offers support through local providers.   

For information about measles, vaccination, or local clinic availability, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378 or 711 (TTY), or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles. 

For more information about measles or immunizations, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378, 711 (TTY) or visit: hhs.nd.gov/measles.