With measles exposures identified in the Grand Forks area, many local families are understandably concerned. Measles is highly contagious, but it is also preventable.
Dr. Marc Nielsen, Medical Director of Primary Care at Altru, says awareness and vaccination are key to protecting our community.
“Measles spreads incredibly easily, much more easily than most people realize,” said Dr. Nielsen. “If someone with measles enters a room, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours. That’s why even a single case in our region matters.”
Recognizing Symptoms
Measles often begins with symptoms that resemble a cold, which can make it difficult to recognize early.
Common early symptoms include:
- High fever (often 104°F or higher)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Fatigue
A few days later, a red rash typically appears at the hairline and spreads downward to the rest of the body.
“Measles is not just a rash,” Dr. Nielsen said. “We can see serious complications like pneumonia, dehydration and, in rare cases, brain inflammation. For young children especially, this can become severe very quickly.”
Children under 1, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for complications.
Why Vaccination Is So Important
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective protection against measles. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing the disease.
“We have a safe and highly effective way to prevent this illness,” Dr. Nielsen said. “The MMR vaccine has been protecting children for decades. When parents choose vaccination, they are choosing to shield their child from a disease that can cause real harm.”
He adds that vaccination also protects the broader Grand Forks community, including infants who are too young to be vaccinated and neighbors who cannot receive vaccines for medical reasons.
“As a physician and as a parent, I can’t overstate how important prevention is,” Dr. Nielsen said. “No parent wants to see their child hospitalized with something we had the power to prevent.”
What To Do If You Think You've Been Exposed
If you believe your child or family member may have been exposed to measles, please contact your healthcare provider. Altru’s Nurse Advice Line is at 701.780.6358 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
“Our Nurse Advice Line is available around the clock,” Dr. Nielsen said. “If families are unsure about symptoms or next steps, we want them to call. We can help guide them safely.”
Unvaccinated individuals who are exposed may be asked by public health officials to quarantine for up to 21 days after their last exposure to prevent further spread. While quarantine can be disruptive, it plays a critical role in protecting schools, workplaces and vulnerable community members.
How Altru Is Helping Reduce Exposure
To help protect patients during times of increased respiratory illness activity, Altru offers Virtual Waiting Rooms at clinics.
Patients can check in for their appointment and wait in their vehicle. When the care team is ready, patients are brought directly inside.
“These virtual waiting rooms are another way we’re working to reduce potential exposure,” Dr. Nielsen said. “We want families to feel safe coming to their appointments.”
A Message For Families
Dr. Nielsen understands that parents want clear, honest information.
“My role is to partner with families, not pressure them,” he said. “But I also feel a deep responsibility to speak plainly. Measles can be serious. We have a safe, effective vaccine that prevents it. Choosing to vaccinate is choosing protection for your child and for our entire Grand Forks community.”
He encourages families to review their children’s immunization records and schedule any needed vaccinations.
“In medicine, there are few things as powerful as prevention,” Dr. Nielsen said. “Keeping your child up to date on vaccines is one of the simplest and strongest ways to protect their future.”
For questions about Measles, call Altru's Nurse Advice Line at 701.780.6358.