BISMARCK, N.D. (ND HHS) - The North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) department has confirmed five additional measles cases in Williams County, bringing the total number of cases in the state to nine for 2025. All newly diagnosed individuals were unvaccinated and did not have reported contact with previously identified cases. For the safety of the community, these individuals are currently isolating at home as recommended to prevent further spread of the virus.
Members of the public who visited the Williston Walmart on April 29 between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. may have been exposed to the measles virus. Those who were present during this timeframe are encouraged to monitor for symptoms and reach out to a healthcare provider if any symptoms develop.
It is important to note that four individuals diagnosed with measles were present in local Williston schools while they were infectious. In compliance with North Dakota Century Code 23-07-17, unvaccinated students will be excluded from school for 21 days following exposure. Additionally, staff members without documentation of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination, or those born after 1957, should also be excluded from school activities.
Here is a list of affected schools and their respective dates of exclusion:
Missouri Ridge Elementary: May 7 - May 23 Williston Middle School: May 7 - May 21 Williston High School: May 7 - May 21The HHS, in collaboration with the Upper Missouri District Health Unit, is actively working with schools to notify families, provide educational resources, and offer guidance regarding the measles outbreak.
“Due to the current measles outbreak, please isolate at home if you have symptoms such as runny nose, fever, cough, and rash,” stated Dr. Beverly Tong, deputy director of the Upper Missouri District Health Unit. “Isolation should continue for at least four full days after the rash appears. The period from exposure to the onset of the rash typically ranges from seven to 21 days, and individuals can spread measles up to four days prior to the rash's appearance. If you wish to be tested, please contact your healthcare provider for instructions on when and where to arrive at their clinic to minimize the risk to others.”
Given that some of the recent cases are not linked to known exposures, there is rising concern about potential community transmission of measles. As a precautionary measure, HHS recommends that all residents and travelers to Williams County ensure they are vaccinated against measles. This includes considering early MMR vaccination for infants aged 6 through 11 months, as those under 6 months are ineligible for the vaccine.
Older children visiting or residing in Williams County should also receive early MMR vaccination. Children aged 12 months and older should receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine if they have not already, followed by a second dose at least 28 days later. Children who have received two doses of MMR after their first birthday are considered fully vaccinated.
Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed immune due to natural exposure, but those born in 1957 or later who live or visit Williams County should ensure they have received two documented doses of the MMR vaccine. Individuals unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider. Immunization records can be accessed at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or by contacting a healthcare provider.
Vaccines are readily available through most clinics. For families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program offers support through local providers. The Upper Missouri District Health Unit is conducting vaccination clinics at:
Location: 110 W Broadway, Williston
Thursday, May 8: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m. Friday, May 9: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.HHS urges anyone exhibiting measles-like symptoms, or those who have been in close contact with infected individuals, to avoid visiting the clinic in person. Instead, they should contact their healthcare provider for guidance. It is advisable to call ahead before visiting any clinic or hospital emergency room to mitigate the risk of exposing others.
For additional information about measles, vaccination, or local clinic availability, please contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378 or 711 (TTY), or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.
