Minnesota Measles Cases Cropping Up Again

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Department of Health is reporting measles has cropped up again in the Twin Cities area, but the effects could stretch to the rest of Minnesota due to exposure at a busy public venue.

Two new cases were recently confirmed, the third and fourth of the year. The measles was discovered in an adult from Washington County, and contact tracing believes they came in contact with the disease while on a foreign trip.

The other case is an unvaccinated child from Dakota County. Officials do not know yet where they got the disease from. Experts worry that could mean measles is floating through the community undetected, resulting in more infections down the line.

They are warning parents the child visited the Mall of America indoor theme park on May 24th while contagious from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Symptoms may not develop until as late as June 14th in anyone at the mall at the same time. Officials urge those potentially affected to be vigilant in the coming weeks, especially if they develop any symptoms.

Early on, those sick with measles could have a fever, cough, runny nose, or watery eyes. Later on, a rash develops that will run from head to toe. The rash comes on about two to three days after the fever starts.

Anyone who believes they need to see a doctor should call first, so no one in the waiting room or other staff are recklessly exposed. The best way to protect yourself from the measles is to get the MMR vaccine. Children should get the first shot after turning one and the second between four and six years old.

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