That’s the Minnesota Department of Health’s Kris Ehresmann. With confirmed measles cases now up to 41, the department is expanding its recommendation for stepped-up vaccinations. The accelerated vaccine schedule is often used during outbreaks. Officials are recommending all kids 12 and under who have not had a measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) shot should get the first dose as soon as possible. And, all Somali Minnesota children who received their first dose at least 28 days ago should get their second dose now.
The MMR vaccine is given to children in two doses, typically at 12 months and between 4-6 years. The first dose offers good protection, and the second dose provides extra security. Babies under a year old may have some protection from their mothers if their mothers have been vaccinated or have had measles. Minnesotans who have received the MMR vaccine are considered protected.
So far, 38 cases are confirmed in Hennepin, 2 in Ramsey and one in Crow Wing County.