PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Health is reporting the first measles case of 2025 in a South Dakota resident. An adult in Meade County developed a measles infection after traveling internationally. The measles patient visited several public locations, and persons who were in the same settings are asked to self-monitor for measles symptoms for 21 days.
Community members may have been exposed to measles during the following times and locations:
- Rapid City Medical Center Urgent Care waiting room (2820 Mt Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD)
- May 28, 2025, from 7:15 am to 10 am MT
- Monument Health Sturgis Urgent Care waiting room (2140 Junction Ave, Sturgis, SD)
- May 29, 2025, from 9:45 am to 3 pm MT
Measles symptoms appear in two stages. In the first stage, the individual may have a runny nose, cough, and a slight fever. The eyes may become reddened and sensitive to light while the fever consistently rises each day. The second stage begins on the third to seventh day of symptoms and consists of a temperature of 103-105°F, and a red blotchy rash lasting for four to seven days. The rash usually begins on the face and then spreads down to the trunk and out to the arms and legs.
“Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and spreads through the air from an infected person,” said Dr. Joshua Clayton, state epidemiologist. “Individuals who lack immunity from vaccination or past infection are at high risk of measles infection if they have contact with an infected person.”
The measles vaccine offers the best protection against infection and avoids the risks that come with infection. The following people are considered immune to measles:
- Born before 1957;
- Received 1 dose of measles vaccine (MMR) for an adult;
- Received 2 doses of measles vaccine (MMR) for a child or an adult at higher risk of infection;
- Presence of measles antibodies shown by a lab test; and
- Previous measles infection shown by a lab test.
Measles vaccine (MMR) is typically given at 12-15 months of age. The second dose of MMR is given at 4-6 years of age. The vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles infection, and two MMR doses usually produce lifelong immunity. If you are planning to travel internationally with children, MMR vaccines can be given to children starting at six months of age.
Learn more about measles on the Department of Health website, where information can be found in the form of fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and a webinar for healthcare providers.
At the heart of the Department of Health’s mission is a simple goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans.
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