The fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic last week stirred conversation about long-term health issues after an infection. Plus, we’re tracking discussions about tetanus after the Minnesota Department of Health recently reported that an unvaccinated child in Minnesota was hospitalized last year.
But first, let’s look at ongoing concerns about measles as the outbreak in Texas and New Mexico continues.
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Ongoing measles outbreak drives conversations
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- As the measles outbreak in the Southwest worsens, parents in Minnesota are worried about their children’s safety. Online, many wondered how to prepare in case of a future outbreak locally.
- Some social media users promoted vaccines to help stop the spread of measles. They also praised how effective the MMR vaccine is against measles.
- But other users falsely claimed the MMR vaccine might not be safe and that it could cause serious health problems.
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Why this matters: Hesitancy or refusal to take the MMR vaccine could lead to more measles outbreaks in Minnesota and in the region.
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Helpful messaging to share right now:
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- Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective against measles. The vaccine is tested and monitored to ensure it’s safe for everyone.
- Minnesotans can check their vaccine records using the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection (MIIC) or the Docket app.
- Intentionally exposing your child to measles is very risky. Getting vaccinated is the best way to stay safe from measles.
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Suggested caption:
Measles is more than just a rash. That’s why it’s so important that everyone receives the MMR vaccine on time.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective against measles. Make sure your family is up to date on their vaccines using the Minnesota Immunization Information Connection website or the Docket app on your phone.
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Minnesotans react to COVID-19’s long-term effects
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- A survey from the Minnesota Department of Health prompted conversation about the long-term risks of COVID-19. In response, some social media users falsely claimed that vaccines cause long COVID. Others shared their own experiences with lasting symptoms.
- An article about lung scarring after COVID-19 also stirred debate. Some questioned if their lung problems were caused by the illness and shared worries about chronic coughs and other long-term symptoms. Others falsely alleged that these symptoms were caused by COVID-19 vaccines and doubted how well the COVID-19 vaccine works.
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Why this matters: An estimated 365,000 adults in Minnesota could have experienced symptoms of long COVID.
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Helpful messaging to share right now:
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- A COVID-19 infection could lead to serious complications, including long COVID. Long COVID is a range of symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and lung problems that last for months or years after getting infected.
- COVID-19 vaccines help your body fight infection. They also protect you from long COVID.
- COVID-19 vaccines go through many tests and checks to make sure they’re safe.
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Suggested caption:
A COVID-19 infection can come with long-term risks.
Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and the problems that can come with it.
Contact your local health department to find a vaccine or visit Vaccines.gov.
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Minnesota child hospitalized for tetanus sparks vaccination questions
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- In Minnesota, an unvaccinated child diagnosed with tetanus was hospitalized for a month last year, leading to discussion online about tetanus. Some people also shared information about vaccines that protect against tetanus.
- Some adults said that they did not realize certain vaccines, including the tetanus vaccine, need booster doses. Others claimed that they had issues accessing vaccines even after asking for them.
- Other social media users expressed concerns that widespread rejections of vaccines will put more children in danger.
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Why this matters: Tetanus is a serious disease that can be prevented with vaccines. People may be unaware that they need multiple doses to stay protected.
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Helpful messaging to share right now:
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- Tetanus is caused by bacteria entering the body through a cut or wound. Vaccination is the only way to prevent tetanus.
- Infants and young children need five doses of the DTaP vaccine. Preteens need one dose of the Tdap vaccine. Adults should get booster doses of the Tdap or Td vaccine every 10 years.
- You can find where to get vaccines by asking your local health department or visiting Vaccines.gov.
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Suggested caption:
Tetanus is a serious disease caused by bacteria from cuts or wounds. Luckily, it’s preventable with vaccines.
✅ Kids need 5 doses of the DTaP vaccine.
✅ Preteens need 1 dose of the Tdap vaccine.
✅ Adults need a Tdap or Td booster every 10 years.
Need help finding a vaccine? Contact your local health department or go to Vaccines.gov to find a nearby pharmacy.
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No, vitamin A does not prevent measles
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False claims about vitamin A and measles have spread in light of the current outbreak.
Minnesotans need to know that vitamin A does not stop you from getting sick. Share this article so your community can learn more about how to stop the spread of measles.
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Public Good News is a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to community health. We partner with trusted local voices throughout the U.S. to distribute accurate, accessible, and inclusive health news in English and Spanish.
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Have feedback on this email? Please send it to Info@MNHealthComms.org.
Thanks for reading,
The MN Health Communications Initiative team
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