Public health officials have announced that individuals may have been exposed to measles at several locations in Milbank and Brookings, South Dakota. The potential exposure dates and venues are as follows:
- Milbank VFW Bar, 205 S 3rd St, Milbank: January 30, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Sly’s Steakhouse, 1012 S Dakota St, Milbank: January 30, 2026, from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
- Wrestling Tournament at Brookings High School, 530 Elm Ave, Brookings: January 31, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Ice Hockey Game at Larsen Ice Center, 924 32nd Ave, Brookings: January 31, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Pints & Quarts, 313 Main Ave, Brookings: January 31, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Dr. Joshua Clayton, state epidemiologist for South Dakota Department of Health (DOH), stated: “As South Dakotans, it is our personal responsibility to help prevent the spread of measles in our state. Following DOH guidance after a known exposure to measles is crucial. Knowing your immune status, monitoring for symptoms, and staying home if you feel sick are critical steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community.”
The department advises anyone who was present at these locations during the specified times to self-monitor for symptoms over the next three weeks following their possible exposure date. Those who do not know their immunity status or are not immune should consult a healthcare provider about vaccination or immune globulin.
Measles typically presents with initial symptoms such as runny nose, cough and mild fever; eyes may also become red and sensitive to light while fever rises daily. After three to seven days of illness onset there is usually a higher fever (103–105°F) and a red blotchy rash that lasts four to seven days and spreads from the face throughout the body.
The department highlights that maintaining up-to-date immunization is the best way to prevent measles infection—especially for those planning international travel. The MMR vaccine is normally given between ages one and six but can be administered as early as six months old for children traveling abroad; two doses generally provide lifelong protection against measles.
Further information about measles prevention can be found on the Department of Health website.
The mission of the Department of Health is described as aiming “to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans.” The department says it works toward promoting wellness and preventing disease across the state while seeking quality healthcare access for residents.
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