Four More Measles Cases Confirmed in North Dakota

State total rises to 11 cases as officials warn of exposure risk at multiple public locations

Mar. 1, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed four additional measles cases in the state, bringing the total to 11. The new cases were reported in Walsh and Pembina counties, with one previous case in Williams County. Health officials warn that individuals contagious with measles visited numerous public locations throughout the state during their infectious period, potentially exposing others to the highly contagious respiratory virus.

Why it matters

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in unvaccinated individuals. The rising number of cases in North Dakota raises concerns about the potential for further spread within the community and the need for public health monitoring and response.

The details

The new measles cases include one in Walsh County, which is the first reported in that county, and three additional cases in Pembina County. The person with the Walsh County case had recently traveled to nearby Pembina County. Two people have been hospitalized with the virus so far. Health officials warn that individuals contagious with measles visited numerous public locations in Cavalier, Colfax, Grand Forks, Fargo, and Walhalla, potentially exposing others.

  • The state has confirmed a measles case in Walsh County.
  • Three additional cases have been confirmed in Pembina County.
  • One case was previously confirmed in Williams County.

The players

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

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

Molly Howell

A representative from the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services who provided information about the measles cases and the potential for spread.

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What they’re saying

“You are contagious four days before you even have that rash or are showing signs and symptoms, so a lot of people don't know they have measles and are out in the community and that's really more when it ends up spreading.”

— Molly Howell, Representative, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

The takeaway

This measles outbreak in North Dakota highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for vigilance in monitoring and containing the spread of highly contagious diseases, especially in areas where public exposure may have occurred.