North Dakota is the 11th US state with a measles outbreak

measles case since 2011, involving an unvaccinated child in Williams County who likely contracted the virus from an out-of-state visitor . This incident has led to claims that North Dakota is the 11th U.S. state experiencing a measles outbreak. However, there is conflicting information regarding this assertion. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that nationwide cases have surged to 935 across various jurisdictions, raising concerns about public health and vaccination rates.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has confirmed three additional measles cases in Williams County, bringing the total to four. All cases are in unvaccinated individuals who were close contacts of the initial case, according to HHS Immunization Director Molly Howell. Measles, a viral illness, can be serious, especially for young children and those with weakened immune systems.HHS is working closely with local public health officials to identify and notify other potential contacts. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

"Measles is highly contagious, and vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your community," Howell stated. "We urge anyone who is not vaccinated against measles, especially those who have been in contact with a confirmed case, to get vaccinated as soon as possible."

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective. HHS recommends that children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine at 12-15 months of age and a second dose at 4-6 years of age. Adults who are not immune to measles should also get vaccinated.

measles should contact their healthcare provider immediately. It's important to call ahead and inform the clinic or hospital that you suspect measles so they can take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus to others. HHS will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

As the virus takes hold in U.S. communities with low vaccination rates, health experts fear that spread could stretch on for a year. Here's what else you need to know about measles in the U.S.

Texas state health officials said Tuesday there were 19 new cases of measles since Friday, bringing the total to 702 across 29 counties — most of them in West Texas. The state also added two hospitalizations to its count Friday, for a total of 91 throughout the outbreak.

Despite reports suggesting North Dakota's status as the 11th state with an outbreak, some sources indicate discrepancies in these figures. For instance, additional articles state that up to twelve states may be reporting outbreaks simultaneously . Given the complexity of tracking infectious diseases like measles and the implications for public health policy, it is crucial to rely on accurate data when assessing outbreak statuses. As vaccination remains a pivotal factor in controlling such diseases, ongoing education and outreach are essential.

Read more

Sarah H

Also on site :

• Webb Telescope Sheds Light on Enigmatic Exoplanets
• Trump’s Delegation Meets China as Stakes Rise for the Global Economy
• Real Housewives star Teddi Mellencamp reflects on ‘extreme’ highs and lows of cancer treatment