Ruth Lynfield, MD, is state epidemiologist and medical director at the Minnesota Department of Health and co-principal investigator of the Minnesota Emerging Infections Program. She has conducted numerous infectious disease investigations and outbreak responses, developed surveillance systems, and conducted public health research, evaluation, and planning. Her research focuses on emerging infections, antimicrobial resistance, and prevention of infectious diseases, including vaccine effectiveness studies. She was awarded the Weill Cornell Medical College Alumni Association Award of Distinction for her outstanding commitment to supporting colleagues in clinical care, research, and education.

She currently serves as the NFID liaison to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices Adult RSV Work Group.