North Dakota Health and Human Services has confirmed the first reported measles case in Burke County.

Burke County is the fourth county in the state impacted by measles, joining Williams, Cass and Grand Forks counties.

According to Health and Human Services (HHS) information, the number of confirmed measles cases in the state has increased to 28 since May 2.

The affected individual in Burke County traveled frequently to Williams County before the illness, according to HHS information.

Based on an HHS investigation, the public may have been exposed at locations in neighboring Divide County, including Lindsey’s Grocery Story and Dollar General in Crosby on May 26 between 3-5:45 p.m.

Exposed individuals who were vaccinated against measles or born before 1957 and therefore considered immune due to natural exposure do not need to quarantine, but should still monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. Unvaccinated individuals who are not protected against measles should quarantine for 21 days following exposure, and call a health care provider before seeking care to prevent exposing others at medical facilities.

Currently, early vaccination is not recommended in Burke, Cass or Grand Forks counties. Information from the HHS indicates investigations have found no evidence of community spread in those areas. HHS will update vaccination guidance for counties as new data becomes available.

Due to confirmed community transmission in Williams County, HHS continues to recommend early and accelerated MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination for individuals in or traveling to Williams County.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation and a rash that spreads across the body. The virus spreads through the air and can linger in a room for up to two hours after an infected person has left. People with measles are contagious before and after symptoms appear, increasing the risk of unintentional spread.

There is no specific medical cure for measles. Treatment is supportive and focused on relieving symptoms. Complications, such as pneumonia, should be managed under the care of a healthcare provider.

HHS advises the risk to the vaccinated general public is low as the majority of North Dakotans are vaccinated against measles.

“This is the highest number of measles cases reported in North Dakota since 1978, when 211 cases occurred,” said HHS Immunization Director Molly Howell. “The MMR vaccine is highly effective and far safer than the risks associated with measles complications. Vaccination is recommended for anyone born in 1957 or later who is 12 months of age or older. Please speak with a trusted health care provider about getting vaccinated.”