Statement on measles cases in Minnesota

Statement
Oct. 15, 2026

Contact information

This statement is attributable to the Minnesota Department of Health.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) urges anyone who has not been vaccinated against measles to get vaccinated. MDH is working closely with local public health agencies to follow up on recent measles cases and exposures. Since mid-September, there have been 25 cases of measles confirmed in two unrelated clusters in different parts of the state (6 in Fillmore County and 19 in Todd County). All of the people who got sick with measles in recent weeks were unvaccinated. Given how contagious measles is, the case count will very likely grow in the days and weeks ahead. The current total for measles cases in Minnesota is 42 cases in 2026.

After being eliminated in the U.S. for decades, measles is once again circulating within our country. There have been more than 4,000 confirmed cases in the U.S. this year. In our highly mobile society, that means exposure can occur in any community, in any county. There are pockets of unvaccinated or under-vaccinated people across Minnesota, and anyone who isn't vaccinated against measles is at risk -- especially right now.  

Measles can make people very sick, especially infants, young children, pregnant people and people with underlying conditions. Prevention through vaccination is the best thing you can do. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the strongest defense against measles. The vaccine is safe and well-studied. Now is a great time to ensure you and your family are protected. No matter your age, it’s never too late to get vaccinated. Talk to your healthcare provider for more information on when to get vaccinated.  

More information about measles, including current case counts that are updated weekly as well as vaccine information and other resources, can be found on the MDH Measles website.  

-MDH-

Media inquiries:
Amy Barrett
MDH Communications
651-201-4993
Amy.Barrett@state.mn.us