Experts encourage Measles vaccine following Cass County cases

CASS COUNTY, N.D. (Valley News Live) - The measles outbreak in North Dakota remains ongoing as Two instances were documented in Cass County over the weekend. .

A case occurred at Essentia Health at The Lights West Fargo Clinic, whereas another one took place at the Essentia Health Walk-in Care Clinic located on 52nd Avenue.

Particularly in pediatric care, we are highly meticulous and watchful regarding the spread of viral infections," stated Dr. Stephanie Grondahl from Pediatric Hospital Services at Essentia Health. "I believe since the advent of COVID-19, we've become increasingly cautious about this issue. However, without doubt, we implement additional safety measures when there’s a strong likelihood of measles.

Even though precautions may be taken, it's crucial to keep in mind that measles cannot actually be seen with the naked eye. This disease spreads through the air.

"If you're not vaccinated, your risk jumps up to 90% of contracting measles when exposed to an infected individual in close quarters," explained Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist Autumn Nelson from Sanford Health.

Grondahl indicates that an exposure can occur anytime, anywhere.

This can linger in the atmosphere for as long as one or two hours at times. It might have come from someone you didn't directly interact with.

Your child should receive the initial vaccination at 12 months of age. The subsequent dose typically occurs around their fourth birthday. Public health professionals aim to highlight that the second dosage is not an additional booster but rather a component of the two-step immunization process.

"All individuals aged 66 and older who were born before 1957 are considered immune to MMR and do not require the vaccination," added Nelson.

A vaccine, they say, is your best defense. Those at Fargo Cass Public Health even say they’ve seen an uptick in vaccines since cases were announced in North Dakota.

"There have been numerous inquiries from individuals who were administered the MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967 since this earlier version was not live. Most of these people do not possess their vaccination records. Therefore, without such documentation, we advise everyone to receive the MMR vaccine as adults," stated Cheryl Wavrin, the Immunization Coordinator at FCPH.

The North Dakota Health and Human Services is advising unvaccinated people who have been exposed to quarantine for three weeks. Should the HHS inform you of exposure, according to FCPH Director Jenn Faul, you do have another choice.

There is a chance to receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine within 72 hours after being exposed to a confirmed case, which would eliminate the need for quarantining.

The MMR vaccine clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 15th. From 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., visit the FCPH building. An appointment isn’t required, but please have your insurance details ready.

To learn more about measles throughout the state, click here.