MN Measles Cases Hit A Level Not Seen Since 1990

ST. PAUL, MN — Minnesota has now recorded more measles cases in 2026 than in any single year since 1990, state health officials said Thursday, and they expect the count to keep climbing.

The Minnesota Department of Health reported 80 cases so far this year. All but two involved people who had not received both doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, and 71 percent of the cases have been in children under 18, according to the latest state case data.

"The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is well-tested, highly effective and provides long-lasting protection," Minnesota Health Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham said in a statement. "We strongly advise anyone who is recommended to receive the MMR vaccine and has not been vaccinated to contact their healthcare provider and get vaccinated now."

The spike in Minnesota mirrors a nationwide surge. More than 4,500 measles cases have been reported across the U.S. so far this year, according to MDH.

Over the past year, the department has traced several clusters of Minnesota cases back to people who traveled within the United States. With a historic amount of the virus now circulating nationally, health officials said they anticipate more cases here in the coming weeks and months.

Measles is extremely contagious, and officials warned that a single case introduced into a community with low vaccination coverage can quickly spark an outbreak. While most people who catch the virus recover, it can cause lifelong complications and can be fatal.

Vaccination rates fell during the COVID-19 pandemic and have not recovered to earlier levels, leaving many people, particularly children, at risk, according to MDH.

Health officials noted that getting vaccinated also helps shield people who cannot get the shot, including infants too young for it, pregnant women, and those with certain medical conditions.

The department is urging Minnesotans to check their immunization records to confirm they and their children have received the MMR vaccine. People can review the state's MMR vaccine recommendations online.

Anyone who wants to get vaccinated should contact their regular health care provider. Those without one can find other vaccination options, including local health departments, community health boards, pharmacies and retail clinics.