Governor Walz Urges Minnesotans to Get Vaccinated

State officials are pushing for increased vaccination uptake as measles clusters emerge in two counties.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in COVID-19

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of an institutional facade in navy, cream, and red, representing public health policy and institutional health infrastructure. — Governor Tim Walz is urging Minnesotans to get vaccinated as the Minnesota Department of Health reports twenty-five measles cases across two counties. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Governor Tim Walz is encouraging all Minnesotans to get vaccinated against influenza, COVID-19, and measles following reports of new viral outbreaks. The Minnesota Department of Health confirms that 25 measles cases have been identified in Fillmore and Todd counties since mid-September.

Why it matters

Vaccinations are recommended to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death as the state contends with localized clusters of infectious disease. Public health officials emphasize that immunization is the primary tool for halting the transmission of these preventable conditions.

Minnesota has recorded 42 total measles cases in 2026, while more than 4,000 cases have been confirmed across the United States. All 25 individuals affected in the recent clusters were reported to be unvaccinated.

The players

Tim Walz

Tim Walz is the Governor of Minnesota who frequently emphasizes public health initiatives and state emergency management.

Minnesota Department of Health

The Minnesota Department of Health is the state agency responsible for monitoring infectious diseases and implementing public health safety protocols.

The details

The Minnesota Department of Health is actively responding to the clusters that emerged in mid-September. Officials state that the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is highly effective at preventing transmission and recommend that residents consult their local clinics or pharmacies for access.

Mid-September 2026 marked the beginning of measles clusters in Fillmore and Todd counties.
October 21, 2026, was the date Governor Walz issued his call for residents to receive vaccinations.
During 2026, Minnesota recorded a total of 42 measles cases.

Health Landscape

These vaccination efforts align with standard public health protocols established by the national measles vaccination recommendations. The focus remains on preventing outbreaks by maintaining high immunity levels through routine immunization programs across the state.

Residents can access flu and COVID-19 vaccines at local healthcare providers, clinics, and pharmacies. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children are up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine to protect against current infection risks.

The takeaway

Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations is the most effective way for individuals to protect themselves and their communities from preventable diseases. Residents should verify their immunization records with a primary care provider to ensure compliance with recommended health schedules.