Measles Cases Surge in North Dakota

State sees 19 confirmed cases, mostly in northeastern region

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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North Dakota has seen a spike in measles cases, with the total number rising to 19 across the state. The majority of the cases, 17, are located in Pembina County in the northeastern part of the state, with one additional case in neighboring Walsh County and one in Williams County in the northwest. Six of the patients are under the age of five, and 11 of the 19 people were not vaccinated. Four people have been hospitalized due to the measles outbreak so far.

Why it matters

Measles is an extremely contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. The high number of exposure sites and unvaccinated individuals involved in this outbreak raises significant public health concerns for the state of North Dakota.

The details

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed 19 measles cases so far this year, a sharp increase from the 36 cases reported in the entire state last year. Health officials have identified 26 locations in eastern North Dakota where people may have been exposed to the virus between January 30 and February 11.

  • As of February 25, 2026, the total number of measles cases in North Dakota has reached 19.
  • The majority of the cases, 17, are located in Pembina County, with 1 case in Walsh County and 1 in Williams County.
  • The outbreak began in late January, with potential exposure sites identified between January 30 and February 11.

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.

Dr. Marc Nielsen

The medical director of primary care at Altru Health System in Grand Forks, who expressed concern over the high number of exposure sites and the contagious nature of the measles virus.

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What they’re saying

“Having that many exposure sites with an extremely contagious disease like measles is 'tremendously concerning.'”

— Dr. Marc Nielsen, Medical Director of Primary Care, Altru Health System (kfgo.com)

What’s next

Health officials are continuing to monitor the situation and work to contain the outbreak, including identifying additional exposure sites and encouraging vaccination among unvaccinated individuals.

The takeaway

This measles outbreak in North Dakota highlights the importance of vaccination and the potential public health risks posed by contagious diseases, especially for vulnerable populations like young children. It underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent and respond to such outbreaks in the future.