Measles Cases Rise to 15 in North Dakota

Four more cases confirmed, bringing total to 15 across three counties

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has reported four additional cases of measles in the state, bringing the total number of cases to 15. The cases are spread across Pembina, Walsh, and Williams counties, with 11 cases in Pembina County alone. Three people have been hospitalized due to the outbreak, and seven of the cases are in children under 5 years old. Eight of the cases are in unvaccinated people, while four are in fully vaccinated individuals.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. This outbreak highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for continued vigilance in monitoring and containing the spread of infectious diseases, even in areas where measles was previously considered eliminated.

The details

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services reported that four more cases of measles have been confirmed in the state, bringing the total number of cases to 15. The cases are spread across three counties, with 11 in Pembina County, one in Walsh County, and one in Williams County. Three people have been hospitalized due to the outbreak, and seven of the cases are in children under 5 years old. Eight of the cases are in unvaccinated people, while four are in fully vaccinated individuals. Measles was first reported in North Dakota this year in Williams County on February 2, and the Health Department reported 36 cases total last year.

  • Measles was first reported in North Dakota this year on February 2.
  • The Health Department reported 36 measles cases in the state last year.

The players

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

The state agency responsible for monitoring and responding to public health issues, including the current measles outbreak.

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The takeaway

This measles outbreak in North Dakota underscores the ongoing need for vaccination efforts and vigilant disease monitoring, even in areas where measles was previously considered eliminated. Public health officials will need to continue working to contain the spread of the virus and educate the community on the importance of vaccination to prevent future outbreaks.