Measle Vaccination Rates Continue to Drop for Minnesota Kindergarteners

November 20, 2025

Minnesota's measle vaccination rates for kindergarteners continue to decrease, according to the latest data from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). 

The state’s falling vaccination rate ranks fourth worst in the country, only behind Idaho, Alaska and Wisconsin. According to the data, 86.5% of Minnesota kindergarteners have been vaccinated for measles, well below the 95% mark needed for herd immunity. 

A leading contributor to the decline is an increase in non-medical exemptions, especially at private and charter schools. Repealing Minnesota's personal belief exemption for school and child-care facility immunization requirements is one of the MMA's top five priorities for the upcoming legislative session. 

“Minnesota has one of the weakest vaccination laws in the country,” said MMA President Lisa Mattson, MD. “We have to do more to protect individuals with compromised immune systems. When you vaccinate your child, you are not only protecting your child’s health, but also the health of their classmates, friends, family, and community.”