Measles Surfaces in Cass County: What You Need to Know

Two new measles cases have popped up in Cass County. This news comes from the North Dakota Health and Human Services. These cases bring the state's total to 11 for the year 2025. The infected individuals had not received the measles vaccine. They caught the disease while traveling abroad. One of them is currently in the hospital. The good news is that these cases are not linked to the ones in Williams County. This means the disease is not spreading within the state. It is important to note that the measles virus can spread quickly in places where people gather. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. People who were in certain places in Cass County at specific times might have been exposed to the virus. These places include a clinic and a walk-in care center. The health department is working with Essentia Health to find and contact those who might have been exposed. If you were vaccinated, you do not need to worry about quarantine. But you should still keep an eye out for symptoms for 21 days. If you have not received the MMR vaccine, you should stay home and watch for symptoms for 21 days. The MMR vaccine is very effective. It is 93% effective after one dose and 97% effective after two doses. Getting vaccinated is the best way to stop the spread of measles. It is important for everyone who is eligible to get the MMR vaccine. This will help protect the community from the disease. If you have not been vaccinated, talk to your healthcare provider about getting the MMR shot. Measles is a serious disease. It can cause serious health problems, including pneumonia and brain swelling. It is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. This includes getting vaccinated and staying home if you have symptoms. The measles virus is highly contagious. It can spread through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also live on surfaces for up to two hours. This makes it important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze.