Whooping cough and measles are spreading at their fastest rate in years

 Whooping cough and measles are spreading at their fastest rate in years.

The Brief
Whooping cough and measles are on the rise in Minnesota, spreading at rates not seen in several years. Doctors are particularly concerned for younger patients, as these viruses can be severe and even fatal for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Decreasing vaccination rates are believed to be contributing to the surge in infections.

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Contagious diseases are affecting more individuals in Minnesota than they have in years. Whooping cough and measles are spreading, prompting hospitals to remain vigilant.

Whooping Cough in Schools
The whooping cough, or pertussis, can last for months. In 2024, 826 cases have been reported in Minnesota—more than in any full year since 2016. Students in Minnetonka and Rochester have been affected, and there has been a recent increase in cases at the University of Minnesota, though fewer than ten have been confirmed.

University officials note that many are unfamiliar with pertussis. "Given this general lack of awareness and the rise in cases, our campus health clinic (Boynton Health) will be communicating about the increase in metro-area cases, symptoms to watch for (such as a persistent cough), and what steps to take if one suspects they have pertussis," said Jake Ricker, the university’s director of public relations.

Doctors Monitoring Symptoms
Pediatricians are particularly vigilant when young patients show symptoms. "We know this virus is circulating," said Dr. Liz Placzek from Children's Minnesota. "We're being extra cautious and closely examining our patients for possible infections and testing when necessary."

The situation is similar with measles, which, despite having a lower number of confirmed cases (52), remains a significant concern. The measles virus is highly contagious, and complications can be severe, with about one in four patients requiring hospitalization.

Vaccination Rates Declining
"Vaccines are highly effective at preventing these diseases and their complications," Dr. Placzek emphasized. However, vaccination rates in Minnesota have dropped since the COVID pandemic. The Department of Health reports that 77% of children born in 2021 are up-to-date on whooping cough vaccinations, and 82% are current on measles vaccines—both significantly lower than in previous years.

Dr. Eric Barth noted an increase in vaccine hesitancy, suggesting, "We’re a victim of our own success; we've been so effective in using immunizations to protect children that many parents aren’t aware these illnesses are still a threat."

Almost all measles cases in Minnesota have occurred in unvaccinated individuals, as the measles vaccine provides lifelong immunity. The pertussis vaccine, on the other hand, requires a booster every ten years, which can lead to some vaccinated individuals contracting the disease.