Deadly Virus Warning Issued For Minnesota Theme Park Guests

Visitors to one Minnesota theme park are being warned about potential exposure to a highly contagious and deadly virus that remains one of the leading causes of death in young children globally.

The Minnesota Department of Health has confirmed the third and fourth measles cases of 2025, underscoring what it calls an "urgent need for continued vaccination and awareness."

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Measles Warning Issued for Minnesota Theme Park Visitors

Measles, once declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, is resurging. According to the latest data from the CDC, there are now 1,088 confirmed measles cases across 33 states, the highest total since 2019.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, one case involves a traveler who was exposed during a domestic flight. Their vaccination status is unknown. The second case, which is of greater concern to health officials, involves an unvaccinated child with no known exposures. Both are recovering at home.

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Visit to Mall of America Sparks Concern

What has officials especially concerned is that the unvaccinated child visited Nickelodeon Universe at the Mall of America while infectious. The child was at the theme park on May 24th between 5 PM and 9 PM.

Anyone who was at the Mall of America during that time should monitor for symptoms between May 31st and June 14th. This is especially critical for individuals who are unvaccinated or have never had measles.

Initial symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash that typically starts on the head and spreads downward. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to call their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic.

Vaccine Offers Strong Protection

A staggering 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will become infected. However, the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is 97% effective at preventing measles.