Measles Case Reported in Pembina County, North Dakota

Second measles case in the state this year, raising concerns about potential community transmission.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A measles case has been reported in Pembina County, North Dakota, the second case in the state this year. The infected person was unvaccinated and likely acquired the infection within the state. Exposure sites have been identified in Cavalier and Grand Forks, and health officials are urging all residents and travelers in Pembina County to ensure they are vaccinated against measles.

Why it matters

When measles appears in a community without a clear travel link, it signals the virus may be spreading more broadly, raising concerns about potential community transmission. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can be serious, especially for young children and those with compromised immune systems.

The details

The case was reported to the public by North Dakota Health and Human Services. The infected person was unvaccinated and likely acquired the infection within the state. This is the second reported case in North Dakota this year, though the two cases are not believed to be linked. Exposure sites have been identified at a Mexican restaurant in Grand Forks, the Cavalier Public School gymnasium, and a medical clinic in Cavalier.

  • On Wednesday, February 4, exposure may have occurred at Charras and Tequila Mexican Cuisine in Grand Forks between 12 p.m. and 3 p.m., and at the Cavalier Public School gymnasium between 3:45 p.m. and 7 p.m.
  • On Friday, February 6, exposure may have occurred at The Clinic Care waiting room in Cavalier between 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.

The players

North Dakota Health and Human Services

The state agency that reported the measles case and is investigating the source of exposure.

Molly Howell

The director of the HHS Disease Control and Forensic Pathology division, who stated that the appearance of measles without a travel link signals the virus may be spreading more broadly.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“When measles appears in a community without a travel link, it signals that the virus may be spreading more broadly. The most effective protection we have is vaccination. When individuals are immunized against measles, they protect themselves and also infants and others who may be more vulnerable to severe illness.”

— Molly Howell, Director of HHS Disease Control and Forensic Pathology

What’s next

The source of exposure is still under investigation by HHS, and the agency is recommending all residents and travelers in Pembina County ensure they are vaccinated against measles.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of highly contagious illnesses like measles, especially when community transmission is a concern. It underscores the need for vigilance and proactive measures to protect vulnerable populations.