North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is reporting one confirmed measles case in Grand Forks County. This is the first case reported in Grand Forks County in 2026.
The individual likely acquired the infection within the state. HHS is continuing its investigation to determine the source of exposure, as the individual reported no recent out-of-state or international travel.
North Dakota has a total of 33 confirmed cases of measles to date in 2026, and five individuals have been hospitalized. The United States has confirmed 1,714 cases in 2026 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Public Exposure Locations
A person contagious with measles visited public locations in Grand Forks County during their infectious period. Details of exposure locations, along with guidance on what to do if you may have been exposed, are available at hhs.nd.gov/measles. Anyone present at the locations during the listed dates and times could have been exposed.
As measles continues to circulate in North Dakota and across the United States and Canada, North Dakotans are encouraged to watch for any signs or symptoms of measles, which often include fever, cough, runny nose and eye irritation, followed by a widespread rash. Individuals are recommended to contact a health care provider for guidance and testing should symptoms develop.
Who is at risk?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can be serious, particularly for young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Unvaccinated individuals are most at risk. These individuals are encouraged to talk to a trusted health care provider about vaccination.
Measles spreads easily through the air and can remain in a room and on surfaces for up to two hours after a person who is contagious leaves that space. Individuals with measles are contagious for several days before and after symptoms appear.
Those who think they have measles should call first before seeking health care to avoid exposing others to measles. Individuals who are not vaccinated and are exposed to measles should stay home and avoid public settings for 21 days after exposure. Unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles should talk to their health care provider about options to reduce the risk of illness or severe outcomes.
Measles vaccine recommendations
The MMR vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent measles.
Because the new case is not linked to other cases or travel, there is concern about potential community transmission. As a precaution, HHS recommends that all residents and travelers to Grand Forks County ensure they are vaccinated against measles.
HHS recommends:
- Infants 6 through 11 months who reside in or are traveling to Grand Forks County receive an early dose of MMR vaccine. (Infants younger than 6 months are not eligible for vaccination.)
- Children 12 months and older receive their first MMR dose if they have not already, followed by a second dose at least 28 days later.
- Children who have received two doses of MMR after 12 months of age are considered fully vaccinated.
- Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed immune due to natural exposure.
- Immunization records can be reviewed at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or by contacting a health care provider. Vaccines are available through most clinics. The federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides vaccine at no cost for eligible families.
As of April 15, 2026, the outbreak of measles in Pembina County has ended. An outbreak is considered over once two full incubation periods—42 days—have passed since the onset of rash in the last reported case. With the conclusion of the outbreak, individuals who live in or travel to Pembina County are no longer advised to receive early or accelerated MMR vaccination and are recommended to follow the routine immunization schedule.
For the most up-to-date information on measles in North Dakota, exposure locations and prevention guidance, visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.