Minnesota: Pertussis cases top 1,000, Second most measles cases in the US

Pertussis

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) says pertussis, or whooping cough cases are rising across the state, affecting people of all ages with a particular impact on children and adolescents. This year outbreaks have been reported in schools, child care facilities, and universities with one outbreak in the metro area that spread to the community.

As of October 10, 1019 total confirmed/probable pertussis cases have been reported in 2024 to date.

The bulk of cases have been reported in Hennepin County (376) and surrounding counties—Wright (106), Carver (95), Dakota (63), Anoka (60), Ramsey (52), Scott (48) and Washington (43).

The median age of those affected is 14 years, ranging from 1 month to 92 years. Despite the growing number of reports, pertussis often remains undiagnosed due to its varied clinical presentation and symptom overlap with other respiratory illnesses.

Minnesota officials report a human rabies death, The state's fourth human case since 2000

Measles

MDH has reported 52 measles cases to date, the second most of any state, following only Illinois (67). Twelve cases required hospitalization.

The outbreak began in May 2024. It is primarily affecting unvaccinated children in the Twin Cities metro area.

45 of the 52 cases reported to date are from Hennepin County. 48 of the cases were in people ages one to 19 years.

Minnesota officials report two influenza A(H3N2) variant 'swine flu' cases