Measles Case Confirmed in Olmsted County, Minnesota

Public health officials have confirmed a case of measles involving a child under the age of five in Olmsted County, Minnesota. The announcement was made on October 17, 2023, through a press release from Olmsted County Public Health Services. The child, who is symptomatic and unvaccinated, recently returned from international travel.

In response to the situation, Olmsted County Public Health Services is collaborating with the Minnesota Department of Health to notify individuals who may have been exposed to the infected child. According to the press release, unvaccinated individuals, or those who have not previously contracted measles, are at the highest risk and should remain vigilant for symptoms associated with the disease.

The Mayo Clinic, where the child was treated, released a statement confirming that the patient is currently doing well. The clinic emphasized its commitment to community safety, stating, “Mayo Clinic is working closely with public health authorities to ensure community safety. We are contacting patients, families, and staff with confirmed exposures to provide guidance. We have strict infection prevention protocols and highly trained teams who respond swiftly and effectively to infectious diseases.”

Measles is known to be a highly contagious disease, with symptoms that include fever, cough, watery eyes, runny nose, and a widespread rash. Olmsted County Public Health Services recommends that anyone who suspects they may have measles contact their healthcare provider to ensure proper care is received while minimizing the risk of exposing others. The virus can remain in the air for some time, even after an infected person has left the vicinity.

Vaccination is the most effective method for preventing measles. Children can receive their first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine between the ages of 12 to 15 months. In certain cases, such as travel to areas experiencing an outbreak, the vaccine can be administered as early as six months of age.

Prior to this announcement, the Minnesota Department of Health had reported a total of 20 measles cases in the state for the year. On October 1, 2023, the department urged the public to consider measles vaccinations after the confirmation of 10 cases within a few days.

The recent case in Olmsted County underscores the importance of vaccination and public health vigilance in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.