BISMARCK, ND (Oct. 2, 2026) – A passenger with measles traveled on Amtrak's westbound Empire Builder, which departed Chicago on Sept. 23 and arrived in Minot the morning of Sept. 24. This created a potential exposure risk for passengers and anyone at the station while the train was scheduled to be in Minot from approximately 9:06 to 9:51 a.m. CT. The passenger reported getting off the train to use the restroom at the Minot station at approximately 9:30 a.m.
Anyone who was at the Amtrak station in Minot while this train was stopped, as well as passengers who were traveling on this train, may have been exposed to measles.
Individuals who may have been exposed and have received at least one dose of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine or previously had measles (likely those born before 1957) do not need to quarantine but should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure. Individuals who have not received a dose of the MMR vaccine should quarantine (stay home) and monitor for symptoms for 21 days following exposure.
If an exposed individual develops symptoms, they should notify their healthcare provider or healthcare facility before presenting for care. This will allow the facility to make special arrangements to prevent exposure to other patients and medical staff.
“This serves as a reminder to North Dakotans that measles continues to circulate with 2026 seeing the highest number of measles cases in the United States since 1986,” said Mary Woinarowicz, North Dakota Health and Human Services immunization director. “The MMR vaccine is 93% effective after one dose and 97% effective after two doses. People who are vaccinated and exposed to measles are unlikely to develop the disease. MMR vaccination is critical to preventing the spread of measles in the community, and anyone who is eligible and not yet vaccinated is encouraged to contact a trusted healthcare provider.”
North Dakota has had 38 confirmed cases of measles so far in 2026. The most recent case was reported in May.