Health officials are urging Minnesotans to make sure their measles vaccinations are up to date before they travel out of the country after the state confirmed a third measles case.
Last week the Minnesota Department of Health identified a case of measles in a 24-month-old child who recently returned from the Middle East, where measles is common.
The Ramsey County child was partially vaccinated for measles, mumps and rubella. Officials said the child was likely infectious between Sept. 6 and 14.
It was the third travel-related case of measles in Minnesota in less than six weeks.
The Health Department said measles outbreaks are occurring in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America. Officials said anyone who travels to these areas who is not fully vaccinated is at risk of contracting measles.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads easily by coughing, sneezing or even being in the same room with someone who has measles.
For more information about measles, see the MDH measles website. For information on CDC travel notices for measles, see the CDC Measles For Travelers website.
