Public health director warns of measles, hantavirus and high vector season; free vaccines and PPE offered

Custer County public-health director Sarah Burlesen told the Board of Health on May 27 that the county is monitoring several infectious-disease threats and is stepping up community services and education.

Burlesen said that, "As of May 21st, we have 1952 confirmed measles cases that have been reported across the United States," and urged county residents to take advantage of free measles vaccination offered by the Custer County Public Health Agency (CCPHA). She also warned that "about 30% of these type of mice are infected with the virus" when describing hantavirus risks posed by deer mice and recommended spraying droppings with a 1:10 bleach solution and using N95 masks and goggles before disturbance.

Why it matters: Measles remains a contagious viral disease with national clusters; locally, hantavirus is a direct acute risk because it can become airborne when rodent excreta are disturbed. Burlesen described CCPHA resources and outreach intended to reduce local exposure and increase vaccine uptake.

Burlesen told the board that hantavirus typically produces flu-like symptoms within one to two weeks and can take up to four weeks to appear; she noted the illness has a high case fatality rate and said CCPHA provides free PPE and instructions at its office. Board members asked technical questions about transmission and cleanup; Burlesen reiterated that aerosolization of droppings is the main risk pathway and that professional contractors can be hired for large cleanups.

Burlesen also briefed the board on an ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, reporting case counts read to the board and adding that the current U.S. risk remains low while travel restrictions and enhanced screening for returnees are in effect.

On seasonal vectors, Burlesen said tick and mosquito activity is expected to be high after warm winter conditions and reminded residents to use repellents, wear protective clothing and check for ticks after outdoor activity. She announced an educational display — including a large tick prop — and outreach at the CCKC family funday on June 6.

Services and programs: Burlesen promoted upcoming TAP (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine clinics and free sports-physical services starting July 1, monthly CPR and BLS classes for local responders and a new integrative recovery-assistance initiative in partnership with local providers. She said CCPHA expects to present an Impact Behavioral Health grant application to regional partners and that an award letter for up to $85,000 is pending.

Next steps: Burlesen asked residents to contact CCPHA for PPE, vaccine appointments and information; the board did not take formal action on these programs at the meeting.