There has been a dramatic rise in measles cases across the United States, primarily in unvaccinated individuals. Minnesota has confirmed 18 measles cases this year. Nationally, 1,514 cases have been reported through September 23. This puts the United States on track for the highest number of measles cases since the early 1990s. Tragically, two children and one adult have died this year due to measles. Ten cases haves been confirmed in the Twin Cities since September 29. SPPS Health and Wellness is reminding families to stay up-to-date on immunizations that protect against a number of serious diseases, including measles.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily by coughing, talking or being in the same room with someone who has measles. Symptoms include a fever, cough, runny nose and watery eyes followed by a rash. 

• Measles can be very dangerous, especially for babies and young children.
• About one out of four people who get measles will be hospitalized. The majority of hospitalizations are for children.
• One out of every 1,000 people with measles will develop brain swelling due to infection (encephalitis), which may lead to brain damage.
• Between one to three people out of 1,000 with measles will die, even with the best care.
• Unvaccinated individuals who have been exposed to measles may need to quarantine for up to 21 days.
• The best protection for you and your family against measles is the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

The MMR vaccine is a required school immunization and is extremely effective at protecting against measles. Children routinely receive two doses of MMR vaccine: The first at 12-15 months of age, and the second at 4-6 years of age. Families with students who do not have two doses of this vaccine due to a non-medical exemption on file or who are covered under the McKinney–Vento Homeless Assistance Act are recommended to consult with their healthcare provider and complete this series even if they have passed these ages.

School nurses are reaching out to families of unvaccinated students and recommending they get vaccinated. Please contact your healthcare provider with questions. Health Start Clinics, located at SPPS high schools, also offer the MMR vaccines for students ages 11-22. Visit spps.org/wellness for more information. Students with state insurance or no insurance can receive the MMR vaccine at the SPPS Student Placement Center, 2102 University Ave. W. Call 651-632-3763 to make an appointment.

For more information and up-to-date information about measles cases in the United States, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html. 

Thank you for keeping our community healthy!