VIEWPOINT | Why South Dakota didn't have a measles outbreak
Guest column by South Dakota Secretary of Health Melissa Magstadt
PIERRE, SD – It's been four weeks since our last positive measles case, and South Dakota has done remarkably well in protecting its citizens from the kinds of outbreaks that have hit other states much harder. What made the difference in South Dakota?
Several key strategies contributed to our rapid and effective response. Months ago, and long before a measles case was confirmed in South Dakota, the Department of Health (DOH) was already closely monitoring outbreaks in other states, such as Texas, where clusters of counties were struggling. We studied those areas to identify similar communities in South Dakota that might also be at risk. As a result, we identified 12 counties as high priority and launched targeted awareness, education and monitoring efforts.
Then we prepared. We developed clinical guidelines early for identifying, testing and treating measles cases, and we were ready to share them the moment we needed to. These guidelines were quickly distributed across the state. We hosted healthcare provider webinars and posted up-to-date clinical resources on our website. We focused on clinics in communities with lower vaccination rates to help raise awareness and increase immunization efforts. We also activated our network of partners early. Healthcare providers and health systems stepped up right away to support our efforts, helping to identify and isolate cases quickly. Nurses visited small communities to educate individuals and families about measles and how they can stay protected and safe.
The Public Health Laboratory in Pierre increased testing capacity, ensuring quick and accurate testing even during holidays. Over 100 lab specimens were tested. Meanwhile, Disease Intervention Specialists worked around the clock to identify potential cases and notify over 400 individual contacts, ensuring they were aware and immunized.
Most importantly, we mobilized the people of South Dakota. Public awareness proved to be one of our most effective tools. The DOH reviewed hundreds of vaccination records for concerned residents and prioritized immunizations for those who needed them most.
We also made special efforts to reach those who may not receive messages through traditional communication channels like social media or the news media. We specifically targeted communities through mailings and phone calls to ensure our outreach efforts empowered families to take action.
Why did South Dakota do so well? Because we were ready. We made access to the measles vaccine easy. We heard from individuals and families who decided to get vaccinated right away and from others who changed their minds and chose to protect themselves and their children against measles. We mobilized early, prioritized education and access, and launched a coordinated campaign in collaboration with our partners. Through it all, we informed and engaged the people of South Dakota. We removed barriers for those facing healthcare access challenges by offering 43 different pop-up immunization clinics in nearly every county across the state.
South Dakota meets public health threats head-on with resources, collaboration and a strong commitment to keeping our state healthy. The results speak for themselves: a contained outbreak, increased public awareness, and over 1,200 more measles vaccinations administered statewide this year compared to last.
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. We achieved that goal here. I am so proud of our team and the dedicated healthcare professionals across the state.
Melissa Magstadt is the South Dakota Secretary of Health
Well done.
---Why did South Dakota do so well? Because we were ready. We made access to the measles vaccine easy.
Nice work to everyone involved!