Two new measles cases confirmed in Minnesota, including exposure at Mall of America 4063g

The Minnesota Department of Health confirmed two new cases of measles in the Twin Cities metro area Monday. The cases are unrelated; one involved community exposure at the Mall of America. These are the third and fourth confirmed cases of measles in Minnesota in 2025. Investigators from the health department said an unvaccinated child from Dakota County who had not traveled outside of Minnesota in the past month and had no known exposure was infected. “Anytime we confirm a case of measles unrelated to travel that has no known source it is worrying,” said Jessica Hancock-Allen, infectious disease division director at the Minnesota Department of Health. Health officials said the child was infectious while at the Mall of America theme park on May 24. People who were at the mall between 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. may have been exposed to measles and should monitor themselves for any symptoms that develop between May 31 and June 14, as the virus typically takes 10-14 days to incubate before symptoms first appear. Those who have not received the combination measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR vaccine should quarantine and monitor for symptoms. Exposed individuals who have been vaccinated do not need to quarantine, but they should still watch for symptoms. Symptoms of a measles infection include high fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes followed by a full body rash. The disease can be especially dangerous for babies and young children. There is no specific treatment for measles, and the virus can lead to severe health problems, including pneumonia, encephalitis, brain damage, pregnancy complications and death.  A second reported case involved an adult from Washington County who was exposed to the virus during a domestic flight outside of Minnesota. The health department says it does not know that person’s vaccination status.  Both people infected are recovering at home, and local health departments are actively reaching out to those who may have been exposed to either case. Health officials emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against measles and prevent the spread of the virus. The MMR vaccine is typically istered in two doses. The first dose of the vaccine is recommended at 12 to 15 months of age and may be given in combination with other vaccines. The second dose is recommended between 4 and 6 years old. The vaccine has been in use for over five decades and is considered safe and effective by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It usually provides life-long protection.  “Measles spreads easily, and it finds those who are vulnerable,” Hancock-Allen said. “The time is now for families to make sure their children are up to date on their immunizations to protect them from this potentially serious disease.” 40406s