North Dakota Measles Cases Surge, Leading the Nation

BISMARCK — Over the weekend, North Dakota reported six new measles cases, with three in Williams County and another three in Grand Forks County. This surge has now placed the state at the highest rate of confirmed cases in the U.S.

Since late January, when an outbreak began in Texas, measles data across the country has fluctuated quite a bit. North Dakota’s continuous rise has brought it in line with New Mexico, which previously held the highest rate. By the end of May, both states recorded around 3.7 cases per 100,000 residents.

However, on June 3, North Dakota’s rate climbed to 4.3 cases per 100,000 residents, while New Mexico’s remained at 3.7 after reporting two new cases. Despite this alarming rate, only 34 of the 1,088 national cases are in North Dakota.

This isn’t the first time North Dakota has faced a high profile infectious disease outbreak. In the fall of 2020, it recorded the highest COVID-19 death rate in the country for over a month, even surpassing global rates at one point. Last fall, the state also experienced its most severe whooping cough outbreak since 2012, prompting health advisories.

Dr. Stephen McDonough, a former public health officer for North Dakota, attributes the recent measles outbreaks to the state’s relatively low vaccination rates, which have suffered due to misinformation.

“In 1990, North Dakota was considered the healthiest state in the nation,” he noted. “Now, we’ve seen three substantial infectious disease outbreaks in just five years. This trend is not something we should ignore; it reflects serious public health issues.”

As of now, records indicate that measles cases span four counties in North Dakota: Cass County with seven cases, Grand Forks County with ten, one in Burke County, and 16 in Williams County.

Out of the 34 reported cases, 26 are in children aged 5 to 19, four are in kids under 4, and four are in adults over 20. Two individuals are hospitalized, and notably, none of those infected had received vaccinations.

Health officials emphasize that a vaccination rate of 95% is ideal to prevent widespread infection. Yet, North Dakota’s vaccination rate falls below 90%, according to state data.

The state’s Department of Health and Human Services describes the measles vaccine as “highly effective” against measles, mumps, and rubella, stating that one dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective, and two doses are about 97% effective against measles.

A department spokeswoman mentioned ongoing efforts in response to the outbreak, including case investigations and contact tracing. They’ve facilitated laboratory testing, provided mobile medical units, and continue to support local health entities. Residents are urged to consult their healthcare providers regarding vaccinations.

Senator John Hoeven expressed his worries about the outbreak, urging residents to heed the state health department’s advice. In a related statement, a spokesman for Governor Kelly Armstrong reiterated that the governor strongly encourages discussions about measles with trusted health care professionals.

Representative Julie Fedorchak shared her concerns over the rising cases, assuring that her office is closely monitoring the situation. “Measles is serious, and I strongly recommend consulting doctors to stay healthy,” she said, also commending health officials for their efforts in setting up vaccination clinics and educating the public about the importance of vaccines.

In April, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claimed that the measles vaccine hadn’t been “safety tested” and that its protective effects diminish quickly, stirring alarm among public health professionals who maintain that the vaccine is safe and durable.

Dr. McDonough warned against Kennedy’s assertions, particularly after comments from former President Donald Trump about possibly nominating Kennedy for a cabinet position. He described Kennedy’s stance as “outlandish” and predicted negative consequences for public health in North Dakota.

When asked about a connection between Kennedy’s skepticism about vaccines and the increase in measles cases, Senator Kevin Cramer dismissed the idea as “absurd.” He stated that Kennedy’s message mostly aligns with what many people believe: that individuals should consult healthcare providers to make informed decisions based on personal circumstances.

On Tuesday, Dr. McDonough noted that the outcomes of Kennedy’s actions as Secretary were playing out as predicted, particularly with funding cuts to critical research aimed at combating vaccine hesitancy. He warned that these decisions will likely lead to persistent low vaccination rates and continued outbreaks of preventable diseases, expressing doubt that North Dakotans want government actions that hinder vaccination efforts.