Measles is making a comeback across the Northern Plains as vaccination rates decline. South Dakota has reported 12 confirmed cases since May, with North Dakota reporting 28 and Minnesota 24.
South Dakota’s kindergarten MMR vaccination rate has dropped to 91 percent—below the 95 percent threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.
More than 40 counties fall under that benchmark, including Faulk County at just 56 percent.
The Great Plains Tribal Leaders’ Health Board is running mobile vaccination clinics to protect Native communities, which face particular vulnerability.
Health officials say two MMR doses provide 97 percent protection and urge families to review their children’s vaccination status.
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