Missoula, MT — The Flathead City-County Health Department (FCCHD) confirmed a second case of measles in Northwest Montana, officials announced Thursday.
The latest case involves a Flathead County resident who recently traveled outside the state. Health authorities report there is no clear indication of where the individual was exposed to the virus, nor is there any known connection to the previously reported case in the county.
The adult patient, whose vaccination status remains unknown, was recently hospitalized and is currently isolating at home to prevent further spread of the highly contagious disease.
Health officials have identified two locations and specific timeframes where potential public exposure to measles may have occurred:
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Logan Health building, 350 Heritage Way in Kalispell, on Friday, May 23, between 2:40 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
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Logan Health Emergency Department, 350 Conway Drive in Kalispell, on Monday, May 26, between 6:40 p.m. and 9:10 p.m.
Residents who visited these locations during the listed times are urged to assess their risk of exposure using the health department’s Measles Exposure Self-Assessment tool, which is available online.
“Any additional confirmed measles cases and associated exposure locations in Flathead County will be posted on the health department’s website moving forward,” said FCCHD Health Officer Jen Rankosky.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious health complications, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. Public health officials encourage residents to verify their vaccination status and seek medical advice if they suspect exposure.
