Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has declared a state of emergency in response to a concurrent outbreak of three significant diseases affecting both humans and animals across the state.
The declaration aims to mobilize resources and coordinate efforts to mitigate the spread and impact of these diseases.
Since April 2024, Minnesota has experienced a surge in avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) cases, a respiratory pathogen primarily affecting turkeys and chickens.
The state has reported 871 aMPV-positive tests, though this figure likely underrepresents the true number of cases due to underreporting.
The virus leads to decreased egg production and increased mortality in poultry, posing a substantial threat to Minnesota's poultry industry.
In response, the emergency declaration facilitates enhanced surveillance, biosecurity measures, and support for affected farmers.
Concurrently, a severe E. coli outbreak has been traced to contaminated bagged carrots distributed by Grimmway Farms under various brand names, including Trader Joe's and Wegmans.
The outbreak has resulted in 39 reported infections across 18 states, with Minnesota among the most affected.
Fifteen individuals have been hospitalized, and at least one death has been reported.
The contaminated products, sold between August 14 and October 23, 2024, have been recalled.
Health officials urge consumers to discard any potentially affected carrots and to practice proper food handling to prevent further infections.
Respiratory Illnesses in Educational and Long-Term Care Settings
The state has also observed a rise in acute respiratory illnesses within K-12 schools and long-term care facilities.
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) monitors these outbreaks, noting an increase in cases of influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.
Schools and care facilities are implementing preventive measures, including enhanced hygiene practices, vaccination campaigns, and temporary closures when necessary, to curb the spread of these illnesses.
The simultaneous occurrence of these health threats has prompted the activation of Minnesota's Health Alert Network (HAN), designed to facilitate rapid communication among public health officials, healthcare providers, and emergency responders during crises.
The HAN ensures timely dissemination of information and coordination of response efforts to protect public health.
Governor Walz's emergency declaration underscores the state's commitment to addressing these concurrent health challenges through a unified and comprehensive approach, aiming to safeguard the well-being of Minnesota's residents and its agricultural economy.