27 Sep 2024 | 01:24 PM UTC
US: Elevated measles activity reported in Minnesota in September /update 1
Elevated measles activity reported in Minnesota, US, in September. Obtain vaccination; use basic health precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in Minnesota, with an additional 23 cases reported between Aug. 28-Sept. 24, bringing the total case count to 59 cases reported since Jan. 1. This is compared to no cases reported in Minnesota in 2023. Of the total case count, ten were imported cases. The outbreak primarily affects unvaccinated children in the Twin Cities metropolitan area (Minneapolis–Saint Paul), with Hennepin County reporting the highest number of cases. Health officials are urging families to make sure they are up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This report represents the most complete data available as of Sept. 27.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Measles-containing vaccine first-dose (MCV1) coverage in the US is estimated at 92 percent in 2023, within the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported 59 measles cases nationwide in the US in 2023, 121 cases in 2022, 49 cases in 2021, and 13 cases in 2020.
Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
