Possible Measles Outbreak in Minnesota Among Somali community

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Health officials in Minnesota fear that an outbreak of measles will occur unless vaccination rates rise. Six cases, all in children aged 4 or younger, have been reported in Minneapolis so far this year. In contrast, only six cases of measles had been reported in Minnesota since 2005. According to the Star Tribune, officials say that the infectious disease seems to be spreading, especially among the Somali community
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[Admin]

The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed another measles case, bringing the outbreak total to 12 so far. There have been no deaths, but six patients required hospitalization. The cases range in age from 4 months to 35 years old.

The Health Department is urging all Hennepin County residents and Somalis living in the greater metropolitan area to get the vaccinated, if they haven't already done so.

Health officials have linked the outbreak to a Somali child who returned to Minnesota from a trip to Kenya, where measles is common.