Measles Update

Todd County (Minnesota) is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with 115 reported cases
among unvaccinated residents. As of November 9, 2026, the outbreak has resulted in 3
hospitalizations and 5 emergency room visits. Measles is a highly contagious disease that can
cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and, in
rare cases, death.

The rapid increase in cases over the past several weeks highlights how quickly measles can
spread among people who are not vaccinated. While many individuals recover, measles can
cause severe illness requiring hospitalization and may lead to long-term health complications.

Todd County is working closely with the Minnesota Department of Health and local healthcare
systems to respond to and contain this outbreak. Todd County Health & Human Services,
Wadena County Public Health, and Morrison County Health & Human Services are actively
identifying and reaching out to affected families, providing guidance to those who may have
been exposed, and supporting individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with measles.

Now is the time to take action to protect yourself, your family, and your community. The
safest and most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination with the MMR
(measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. The MMR vaccine has been given to children and adults
since 1971. Decades of data and ongoing safety monitoring continues to prove that the MMR
vaccine is safe and effective. One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective at preventing
measles. Vaccination not only protects the person receiving it but also helps safeguard infants,
pregnant individuals, and people with certain immunocompromising conditions who may be
unable to receive the vaccine.

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