Community Alert: Measles Outbreak in Williams County

Community Alert: Measles Outbreak in Williams County

As of last Tuesday, the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed nine cases of measles in Williams County, leading to an urgent health advisory for residents. Alarmingly, five of these new cases have no established connection to previous infections, suggesting the possibility of community transmission among individuals who are predominantly unvaccinated.

Public health officials have identified a potential exposure risk at the Williston Walmart on April 29, during the hours of 2 to 5 p.m. In addition to this retail location, four infected individuals had interactions within local schools, resulting in a mandatory 21-day exclusion for unvaccinated students and staff at Missouri Ridge Elementary, Williston Middle School, and Williston High School commencing May 7.

Dr. Beverly Tong from the Upper Missouri District Health Unit emphasizes the critical need for individuals exhibiting symptoms, such as a runny nose, fever, cough, or rash, to isolate at home for a minimum of four days following the onset of the rash. This caution is vital given the 7 to 21-day incubation period associated with the measles virus, which can be contagious even before the rash manifests.

In response to the outbreak, the NDHHS has issued strong recommendations for all residents and visitors in Williams County to ensure they are vaccinated. This includes advocating for early doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine for infants aged 6 to 11 months, as well as two doses for children and adults born after 1956. While McKenzie County has not reported any confirmed cases of measles at this time, it is advisable for residents to confirm their MMR vaccination status, remain vigilant for any symptoms, and pursue vaccination if they are not already fully protected. It is still possible to receive the vaccine even if symptoms are not present.

For those who suspect they may have measles, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider before visiting medical facilities to prevent any risk of further viral transmission.

As this situation continues to develop, the North Dakota Department of Health has reported two additional cases in Cass County, raising the total number of measles cases in the state to 11.