MN measles cases on the rise amid low vaccination rate

The number of measles cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin are growing to levels not seen in decades. Some health officials are sounding the alarms because at least one of those cases has now turned deadly. Maury Glover joining us now in studio with a look at the situation, Maury. Well, Wisconsin officials have confirmed 431 measles cases this year, the highest number in 35 years. They say an infant there has also died from the disease that is also on the rise here in Minnesota. Measles is a highly contagious disease that was nearly eradicated, but now it's making a comeback in parts of Minnesota. The Department of Health says 59 new cases have been reported this week, all among people who are not vaccinated, bringing the grand total to 139 cases so far this year, the highest number in 36 years. I think we should be very concerned. Health officials say the largest cluster is in Todd County in central Minnesota, where there have been 115 cases. The health department says the median age is nine and a half. Only 61% of children born there in 2023 have been vaccinated, compared to 81% statewide. Well below the 95% recommended to achieve herd immunity to prevent measles outbreaks. The reasons behind that can be many from fear or hesitancy of vaccines to religious choices or lots of other reasons that people may choose not to vaccinate. As you can see from this graphic from the CDC, the US went from less than 100 measles cases back in the year 2000 to thousands of cases this year and last. Health officials say if left untreated, measles can be deadly, but it's also preventable. And I just would like to be very, very clear. This measles, mumps, rubella vaccine has been around for decades and is extremely safe vaccine. And so I would encourage everyone to make sure that if they're able to be vaccinated, that they have been vaccinated. Now, the Minnesota Department of Health says it has received extra doses of vaccine from the CDC to help local health departments offer vaccines during outreach in their communities. Kelsey. All right.