TCHHS Press Release -Measles Identified in Todd County, Minnesota
Todd County (Minnesota) has a case of laboratory confirmed measles (rubeola), as identified by the Minnesota Department of Health Laboratory. This case is reflected on the Minnesota Department of Health Measles Disease Statistics website as of October 1, 2026.
The case involves an unvaccinated adult who contracted measles while traveling within the United States. In accordance with data privacy laws and practices, no additional information about the individual or known contacts will be released.
Todd County Health & Human Services is working to identify individuals who may have been exposed to measles and anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with the disease.
“We are working to prevent the spread of measles in our community,” said Todd County Health & Human Services Director Jackie Och. “Residents who are unvaccinated are at the greatest risk of infection.”
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes or coughs. Symptoms include a high fever, which may exceed 104°F, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. The rash typically begins at the hairline and spreads to the face, neck, and then the rest of the body. Symptoms generally appear 7 to 14 days after exposure.
If you have symptoms of measles, stay home and avoid visitors until you have spoken with your health care provider. Seek medical care promptly, as measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and, in rare cases, death.
Complications are more common among children younger than 5 years of age and adults older than 20. Measles during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature labor, miscarriage, and low birth weight.
The safest and most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. Talk with your health care provider if you have questions about vaccination. Vaccination also helps protect infants, pregnant individuals, and people with certain immunocompromising conditions who may not be able to receive the vaccine.
Todd County Health & Human Services encourages all residents to:
- Report measles symptoms to their health care provider or Todd County Health & Human Services.
- Seek medical care promptly and obtain testing if you develop measles symptoms. Always call ahead so the health care provider can prepare for your arrival.
- Review your vaccination status and get vaccinated if needed.
Additional information about measles is available from the Minnesota Department of Health: https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/measles/index.html
For information about measles, testing, exposures, or vaccination status, contact: Todd County Health & Human Services at 320-732-4500.
For vaccination assistance:
Individuals with private health insurance should contact their primary care provider. Those who are uninsured, underinsured, or enrolled in a Minnesota Health Care Program should contact Todd County Health & Human Services at 320-732-4500.
Media inquiries:
Jackie Och, Director
Todd County Health & Human Services jackie.och@toddcountymn.gov
Katherine Mackedanz, Community Health Manager Todd County Health & Human Services katherine.mackedanz@toddcountymn.gov