Montana health officials are investigating five confirmed cases of measles in a group of children and adults who were exposed while traveling outside the state. The cases were reported after the individuals developed symptoms, which led to contact tracing by local authorities.
The infected individuals attended the same event out of state on April 11, and their close contacts were alerted about potential exposure to measles on the same day. After initial testing at the Montana Public Health Laboratory, the cases were officially confirmed yesterday.
Gallatin City-County Health Officer Lori Christenson revealed that the five people from two households visited the same event, but she declined to disclose the type of event or its location. The individuals were then seen by physicians via telehealth visits and later drove to Bozeman Health Deaconess Regional Medical Center, where medical staff in protective gear collected samples.
Public health officials identified two businesses on U.S. Highway 191 as potential hot zones: North Coast Electric in Four Corners and Interwest Tire in Belgrade. Anyone present at these locations between April 11-14 may have been exposed to the measles virus.
Symptoms of measles include cough, runny nose, fever, red watery eyes, and a rash that often starts on the forehead and spreads down the body. The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and the Gallatin City-County Health Department are urging anyone who may have been in close proximity to these locations during the exposed periods to contact the health department if they experience any symptoms.
As of April 17, a total of 800 confirmed measles cases were being monitored across several states, including Alaska, Arkansas, California, and New York. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned about the potential for misinformation about vitamin A, which can cause liver damage if administered incorrectly.
The outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination and awareness about measles, particularly in communities where vaccination rates may be lower. Local health officials are urging residents to take precautions and consult with healthcare professionals if they have concerns or questions about measles or other infectious diseases.
Source: https://cowboystatedaily.com/2025/04/18/montana-measles-outbreak-triggers-emergency-response-near-wyoming-border