North Dakota confirms first measles case since 2011
A nurse gives an MMR vaccine at the Utah County Health Department on April 29, 2019, in Provo, Utah. The vaccine is 97% effective against measles when two doses are administered. (Photo by)
The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed the state's first measles case since 2011.
A Williams County child who was not vaccinated is believed to have contracted the illness from an out-of-state visitor, the department said Friday. The child is in isolation at home.
Health officials are contacting people who may have had contact with the child and advising people who are not vaccinated to quarantine.
The threat to the public is low due to a majority of North Dakotans being vaccinated against the disease, according to the department.
Molly Howell, immunization director for HHS, said vaccination is the most effective defense against contracting measles.
'Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination is safer than risking measles illness,' Howell said. 'The MMR vaccine has been safely used in the United States since 1973.'
Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation followed by a body-wide rash.
'Anyone with symptoms consistent with measles should call ahead before visiting a clinic to avoid exposing others,' she said.
The department said there is no specific medical treatment for measles, but antibiotics may be used in cases that have developed a secondary bacterial infection.
People who were vaccinated as children and adults born before 1957 are considered protected.
The department said two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing infection. The vaccine is recommended for children at 12-15 months and a booster between 4-6 years old.
The department also recommends that families and individuals consult with their health care provider to discuss immunizations.
North Dakota has 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.
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