By Rich Larson
Rice County has not reported a single case of measles, but Rice County Public Health officials said they are concerned an outbreak could arrive soon as cases rise across Minnesota.
In a news release issued Oct. 15, the department said 25 measles cases have been identified since mid-September in Fillmore and Todd counties, including 23 in the past 21 days. The Minnesota Department of Health is working with local health departments to contact people who were exposed. The new cases bring Minnesota’s total for 2026 to 42 as of Oct. 13.
Nationally, 4,080 confirmed measles cases had been reported in the United States this year as of Oct. 8, according to the release.
Health officials pointed to falling vaccination rates as a key concern. MMR vaccination rates have dropped statewide and remain low in many areas. According to MDH data, 79.5% of Rice County children born in 2023 have received at least one dose of the vaccine.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when an infected person breathes or coughs. Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include a fever that can top 104 degrees, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a distinctive rash. The disease can lead to pneumonia, swelling of the brain and, in rare cases, death.
Anyone with symptoms should stay home and avoid visitors until they have spoken with a health care provider, the department said.
Rice County Public Health said vaccination with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is the safest and most effective way to prevent the disease. Children should receive two doses, the first at 12 to 15 months and the second at 4 to 6 years. Adults born before 1957 are considered immune. Adults born in 1957 or later should have documentation of at least one dose or other evidence of immunity. Two doses are recommended for college students, international travelers and health care workers.
The vaccine is available through local health care providers. Rice County Public Health also offers it to uninsured children, children on Minnesota Health Care Programs and uninsured adults. Walk-in clinics are held Tuesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. at the department, 320 Third St. NW in Faribault. Appointments are preferred but not required. Call 507-332-6111 for more information.
Rich Larson is the owner and General manager of KYMN Radio. Contact him at rich@kymnradio.net
