Minnesota: Measles and Pertussis
Measles
Since January the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has recorded 15 confirmed cases of measles.
This is an increase compared to other years. All the cases have occurred among unvaccinated children and over 50% of the cases have been hospitalized.
The first 12 cases were in unvaccinated children who returned from international travel or had contact with an infected person who traveled internationally.
However, the three recent cases have not traveled, so there is concern for possible spread of measles in the community.
The most recent cases (3) were recorded last week—unvaccinated children in Anoka, Hennepin and Ramsey counties—with one case was confirmed on July 22 and two were confirmed on July 24. At the time of report, two of the three cases needed hospitalization.
“Measles spreads easily, and it finds those who are vulnerable,” said Jessica Hancock-Allen, infectious disease division director at MDH. “That is why it is important for families to make sure their children are up to date on their immunizations to protect them from this potentially serious disease.”
The best way to prevent measles is through immunization. Children should receive two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine—the first at 12 to 15 months of age and the second at 4 to 6 years of age. Children 6 to 12 months should get an early dose of MMR vaccine if they are traveling to a country where measles is common. For all ages, it is important to talk to your doctor if you are going to be traveling to another country. Your doctor can check to make sure you and your family are up to date on your immunizations and make sure you do not need any other immunizations.
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As of July 25, 2024, a total of 188 measles cases were reported by 25 states, New York City and the District of Columbia.
Pertussis
Minnesota is experiencing a significant rise in pertussis cases with patients ranging in age from 4 months to 80 years and a median age of 15 years. This increase is particularly notable among adolescents.
In 2024, through July 18, Minnesota health officials have reported 336 confirmed/probable pertussis cases. Hennepin County accounts for 38 percent of the cases (127).
Despite the growing number of reports, pertussis often remains undiagnosed due to its varied clinical presentation and symptom overlap with other respiratory illnesses.
MDH advises healthcare providers that testing for pertussis should be considered in patients with a persistent or worsening cough of unknown origin lasting more than seven days, or any duration of cough if there has been close contact with a known case of pertussis.
Through July 20, 8,861 pertussis cases have been reported in the United States.