Minnesota measles cases reach 80, highest since 1990
Minnesota health officials confirmed 80 measles cases in 2026, the highest number since 1990, with Todd County accounting for 57 of the infections. The outbreak has led to warnings from state health leaders about the risk of further spread due to declining vaccination rates.
Outbreak Centers in Todd County
Todd County, home to roughly 25,000 people, has seen a sharp rise in cases, with 57 confirmed infections as of October 2026. The Minnesota Department of Health reported 63 new cases in the past month, with the county’s tally tripling since mid-October. Fillmore County, another area with low vaccination rates, reported seven confirmed infections this fall.
Vaccination Rates Drop Below National Average
Minnesota’s childhood MMR vaccination rate has fallen below the national average. Among children born in 2023, only 81% received at least one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine by age two. This decline contrasts with the state’s earlier reputation for high vaccination rates.
Amish Communities Influence Vaccination Rates
Todd County and Fillmore County, both with low vaccination rates, have Amish communities. Religious objections to vaccination have influenced vaccination rates in these areas, though officials have not explicitly linked the outbreaks to Amish communities. State health officials emphasize that unvaccinated individuals of any background face risks.
Health Officials Urge Unvaccinated Individuals to Seek MMR Vaccine
Minnesota Commissioner of Health Dr. Brooke Cunningham urged unvaccinated individuals to seek the MMR vaccine, stating it is “well-tested, highly effective and provides long-lasting protection.” The vaccine requires two doses for full efficacy, with the first administered between 12 to 15 months and the second between ages 4 and 6. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. stated, “The federal government’s position, my position, is that people should get the measles vaccine,” though he added that the government should not mandate it.
Nationwide Measles Surge
The U.S. is experiencing a national measles surge, with over 4,500 cases reported in 2026—nearly double the previous year’s total. The CDC confirmed three measles-related deaths nationwide, though no fatalities have been reported in Minnesota.
Measles Spreads Through Airborne Droplets
Measles spreads through airborne droplets and can remain infectious in the air.
Pro Tips
Parents should verify their children’s vaccination records and consult healthcare providers for the MMR vaccine.
How Many Measles Cases Have Been Reported in Minnesota This Year?
How many measles cases have been reported in Minnesota this year?
Minnesota has recorded 80 measles cases in 2026, the highest since 1990.
What percentage of cases involve unvaccinated individuals?
All but two of Minnesota’s confirmed cases this year involve unvaccinated people, the Minnesota Department of Health stated.
Why are vaccination rates declining in Minnesota?
Factors include religious objections in Amish communities. Among children born in 2023, 81% had received at least one MMR dose by age two, below the national average.
Political Reactions to Outbreak
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz criticized the nation’s top public health official over vaccine policies, writing on X: “The nation’s highest-ranking public health official has spread misinformation about vaccines since the day he was appointed.”
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