Health experts warn of rising infectious diseases amid vaccination shortfalls in Minnesota

The Scott County Board of Commissioners convened on May 20, 2025, to address critical public health concerns, particularly regarding vaccinations and infectious diseases. The meeting highlighted the potential impacts of funding cuts on public health infrastructure and vaccination programs.

The session began with a discussion led by a public health official who expressed deep concerns about proposed cuts to vaccination programs for uninsured and underinsured populations. The official emphasized that these cuts could lead to an increase in infectious diseases, as the safety net for vaccinations is eroding. They noted that while emergency preparedness and public health infrastructure remain priorities, the overall funding landscape is precarious, especially with potential reductions in Medicaid and SNAP benefits.

Following this, Dr. Wilcox provided an update on infectious disease management, focusing on the importance of vaccinating young children against common childhood diseases. He reported a slight uptick in vaccinations in 2024, excluding COVID-19 and influenza, but warned that vaccination rates for essential childhood vaccines remain below the desired 95% threshold. This shortfall raises concerns about the transmission of diseases such as measles, polio, and hepatitis B.

Dr. Wilcox highlighted alarming statistics regarding measles outbreaks, noting that in 2024, there were 16 outbreaks in the U.S., with Minnesota reporting 70 cases. As of May 1, 2025, Minnesota had seen two cases, but the national trend indicated a rise in cases, with 1,024 documented across 31 states. He pointed out that 96% of those affected had not been vaccinated, underscoring the critical need for increased vaccination efforts to prevent further outbreaks.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for the commissioners to prioritize public health funding and vaccination initiatives to safeguard the community against potential health crises. The discussions underscored the urgent need for a robust public health strategy to address the challenges posed by funding cuts and to improve vaccination rates among vulnerable populations.