New Measles Cases Raise Concerns in Minnesota
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has confirmed two additional cases of measles in the state, bringing the total for 2025 to four. The alarming increase includes an unvaccinated child from Dakota County who was infectious during a visit to the Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America on May 24.
Health officials are urging anyone who was present at the mall between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. on that date to remain vigilant for symptoms which may develop from May 31 to June 14, due to the 10-14 day incubation period before the onset of the disease. MDH emphasizes that unvaccinated individuals, especially those with no previous measles infection, are at heightened risk of contracting the virus.
The child in question had not traveled outside of Minnesota within the last month and has no known contact with other measles cases, leading health authorities to express concern about possible community spread. Jessica Hancock-Allen, the infectious disease division director at MDH, stated, “Anytime we confirm a case of measles unrelated to travel that has no known source, it is worrying.”
The second confirmed case involves an adult from Washington County whose vaccination status has yet to be verified. Both individuals are currently recovering at home.
Tracking the Outbreak
Since the beginning of the year, Minnesota officials have tracked multiple cases, with the first occurring in a Hennepin County adult on March 24, followed by another case in April involving an infant diagnosed while overseas. Notably, this infant did not pose a risk to others upon their return.
As measles continues to pose a significant public health risk, officials are working diligently with local health departments to contact and inform those who may have had exposure. MDH has reiterated that vaccination remains the cornerstone of prevention against measles, calling for children to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in two doses—first at 12 to 15 months and then again between 4 and 6 years of age.
Understanding Measles
Health authorities emphasize the importance of immunization, particularly in light of the contagious nature of measles. With a reported nationwide total of 1,088 cases in 2025—over 720 of which are in Texas—the urgency for vaccination is clear. Measles is highly contagious, with severe effects that can lead to debilitating conditions, including pneumonia and encephalitis.
Symptoms typically include high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a widespread rash. The threat is especially pronounced for young children, who are more vulnerable to the complications associated with this disease.
As MDH continues its proactive measures, parents and guardians are reminded to ensure their children are up-to-date on vaccinations to protect not only their health but the health of the wider community. Hancock-Allen stressed, “Measles spreads easily, and it finds those who are vulnerable.”
Public health officials urge all families to take action now to ensure that they are immunized against this potentially serious and contagious disease.
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