North Dakota has reported its first case of measles since 2011, sparking concerns about the effectiveness of vaccination programs. The child, who contracted the virus through an out-of-state visit and is not vaccinated, has been isolated at home.
Measles is a contagious viral illness that spreads through the air and can lead to serious symptoms, including a fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and a body-wide rash. According to health officials, vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles, with the MMR vaccine being 97% effective in preventing infection.
The US has reported an outbreak of over two-thirds of its cases, with nearly 70% of cases occurring among patients under 19 years old. The CDC reports three deaths and 121 hospitalizations due to measles.
North Dakota’s high vaccination rate of 81% among toddlers and 90% in kindergarten students may help prevent further spread, but officials stress that a 95% vaccination rate is needed to effectively control the virus.
Source: https://www.inforum.com/news/north-dakota/north-dakota-reports-first-case-of-measles-since-2011