Measles outbreak hits Minnesota Somali community, school shuts down
A measles outbreak in Minnesota has prompted the temporary closure of an Islamic religious school.
It has affected at least 30 people, primarily children from the Somali community.
Measles, a highly contagious respiratory virus, can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and brain damage.
The Minnesota Department of Health reports that a third of those infected have required hospitalization.
Nearly all of those affected are unvaccinated.
The state has now recorded 36 measles cases this year.
The outbreak has been linked to travel to regions where measles is common, worsening the situation in a community with historically low vaccination rates.
In 2021, only 24% of Somali Minnesotan children received the MMR vaccine by age two, down from over 90% in 2004.
Public health officials are increasing efforts to educate and vaccinate the community.
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