There's been a measles outbreak in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, there are 29 confirmed cases in the state. One of those cases was just reported in Stearns County.

According to the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention there are a few ways you can protect yourself from getting the virus.

The first thing the CDC suggests you do is figure out if you've been vaccinated as a child. If you've never received the vaccine, they suggest you  make it a priority to go into your doctor's office as soon as possible and get a shot for it.

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If you're opposed to getting vaccinated, there are a few other things you can do to take extra precaution. Essentially, you want to act as you would if you were trying to avoid getting any illness, such as the flu.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth if your hands aren't clean. Make sure you wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap isn't an option, then use hand sanitizer. Obviously avoid sharing cups, water bottles or anything else that would exchange bodily fluids with someone who has the virus or has been exposed to it.

Here's what to look for according to the CDC if you think you may have measles virus. 

  • Rash
  • High fever
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Diarrhea
  • Lung infection, like phenomena

If you think you may have measles, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible and avoid public places where you could potentially spread the virus.

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