The MDH UNEX program has conducted surveillance for unexplained critical illnesses and deaths due to possible infectious etiologies since 1995 with the addition of the companion ME/coroner-based surveillance for fatal infectious diseases (MED-X) in 2006. This program is supported by 2 epidemiologists, 1 health program representative and 1 student and relies on collaboration between MDH staff, the MDH Public Health Laboratory (MDH-PHL), clinical partners and the CDC’s Infectious Disease Pathology Branch (IDPB).  

Minnesota has a decentralized medical examiner (ME) and coroner system. State law mandates that coroners are required to have a medical degree, and over time, many counties have established contracts with one of five regional ME offices. To date, 65 (75%) of Minnesota’s 87 counties are served by one of the five independent ME offices. Minnesota MEs and coroners are represented by the Minnesota Coroners’ and Medical Examiners’ Association and the association holds a yearly educational conference each fall with Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) epidemiologists often invited to present. In addition, MDH hosts the Minnesota Medical Examiner and Coroner Infectious Death Conference where cases submitted to MDH are reviewed and the public health importance is highlighted. This conference, which has been held for over 10 years, has strengthened the collaboration between all partners and has contributed to the overall success of the program.  

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