NDHHS reports nine measles cases in Williams County
By M.K. French
Farmer Staff Writer
As of last Tuesday, nine confirmed cases of measles were reported in Williams County, prompting an urgent health advisory from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. Worryingly, five of these new cases show no link to previous infections, indicating potential community spread among the largely unvaccinated individuals. A public exposure risk has been identified at the Williston Walmart on April 29 between 2 and 5 p.m. Additionally, four infected individuals were in Williston schools, leading to a 21-day exclusion for unvaccinated students and staff at Missouri Ridge Elementary, Williston Middle School, and Williston High School starting May 7.
Dr. Beverly Tong of the Upper Missouri District Health Unit stressed the importance of isolating at home for anyone with measles symptoms (runny nose, fever, cough, rash) for at least four days after rash onset, noting the 7-21 day incubation period and the potential to spread the virus before the rash appears.
NDHHS strongly recommends vaccination for all Williams County residents and travelers, including early MMR doses for infants 6-11 months and two doses for older children and adults born after 1956. While no confirmed measles cases have been officially reported in McKenzie County as of the time of the release, residents in the region are urged to verify their MMR vaccination status, monitor for symptoms, and get vaccinated if they are not fully protected. Vaccination is still possible for those without symptoms. Individuals with potential measles should call their healthcare provider before seeking medical care to prevent further exposure.
At the time of press, the North Dakota Department of Health reported two cases in Cass County, bringing the state total to 11.
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