Pierre - 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 cli

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