PIERRE, SD – In response to newly confirmed cases of measles in South Dakota, the Department of Health (DOH) is expanding access to the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine through a series of public vaccination clinics across the state. These clinics aim to protect South Dakotans by preventing the further spread of this highly contagious disease.
“Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to stop the spread of measles and protect our communities,” said Dr. Joshua Clayton, State Epidemiologist. “We encourage everyone to check their vaccination status and take advantage of these clinics, especially if they’re unsure of their immunity.”
The DOH will be holding several vaccination clinics in the following communities. If media would like to
attend any of these events, please coordinate with Tia Kafka in advance.
• Pierre: Monday, June 23, from 3 – 5:30 p.m. at the Hughes County Public Health Office – 740 E. Sioux Ave., Ste. 107.
• Martin: Thursday, June 26, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Bennett County Public Health Office – 202 Main St.
• Murdo: Monday, June 23, from 1 0 4 p.m., at the Murdo Department of Transportation – 24305 US Hwy 83 (WOW Mobile Clinic).
• Bell Fourche: Monday, June 30, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. & July 7 from 1 – 4:30 p.m. at the Belle Fourche Public Health Office – 2398 5th Ave., Ste. 102.
• Dupree: Tuesday, July 1 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Ziebach County Public Health Office – 215 S. Main St.
• Hot Springs: July 2, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Fall River Public Health Office – 709 Jensen Hwy, Ste. D.
• Custer: Thursday, July 3, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Custer County Public Health Office – 447 Crook St., Ste. 2.
• Rapid City: Wednesday, July 9, from 1 – 4:30 p.m. & Tuesday, July 22, from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Rapid City One Stop – 221 Mall Drive, Ste. 102.
• Sturgis: Wednesday, July 9 from 8:30 – 10 a.m. & 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the Sturgis Public Health Office – 1029 5th St.
• Timber Lake: Wednesday, July 9, from 12 – 2 p.m. at the Dewey County Public Health Office – 1029 5th Ave.
• Spearfish: Thursday, July 10 from 12 – 3 p.m. at the Spearfish One Stop – 120 Industrial Dr., Ste. 7.
The clinics follow confirmation of two new measles cases, bringing the 2025 total to four cases in the state. One of the individuals visited the Rapid City Medical Center Urgent Care waiting room (2820 Mt Rushmore Road) on June 10, 2025, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. MT while infectious. Anyone who was at this location during that time may have been exposed to measles and should monitor for symptoms for 21 days following the potential exposure.
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.
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 or a child 12 months to pre-school age;
• Received 2 doses of measles vaccine (MMR) for a school-aged 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 safe and 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.
The post South Dakota Department of Health encourage everyone to get measles vaccines appeared first on Hub City Radio.