North Dakota Reports New Measles Case as Outbreak Ends in Neighboring County

The state's total measles cases for 2026 now stand at 33 after a new infection in Grand Forks County.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:37pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image of a measles virus particle, its intricate internal structures visible as glowing lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the public health challenges posed by this highly contagious illness.A microscopic view of the measles virus, revealing its intricate internal structure, serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and vaccination efforts to control the spread of this highly contagious disease.Grand Forks Today

North Dakota's Department of Health and Human Services has reported the first measles case of 2026 in Grand Forks County, bringing the state's total measles cases for the year to 33. This new case comes as a measles outbreak in neighboring Pembina County has recently ended.

Why it matters

Measles outbreaks can be concerning public health events, as the highly contagious virus can spread rapidly, especially in unvaccinated communities. The new case in Grand Forks County highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and vaccination efforts to control the spread of measles in the state.

The details

The new measles case in Grand Forks County involves a person who was likely infected within the state. North Dakota has now recorded 33 total measles cases so far in 2026, after a recent outbreak in Pembina County that has since been declared over by health officials.

  • The new measles case in Grand Forks County was reported on Thursday, April 17, 2026.
  • The measles outbreak in Pembina County has recently been declared over by health authorities.

The players

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

The state agency responsible for monitoring and responding to public health issues, including measles outbreaks, in North Dakota.

Grand Forks County

A county in northeastern North Dakota where the new measles case has been reported.

Pembina County

A county in northeastern North Dakota that recently experienced a measles outbreak, which has now been declared over by health officials.

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What’s next

Health officials in North Dakota will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on any new measles cases or outbreaks in the state.

The takeaway

The new measles case in Grand Forks County underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates and vigilant disease surveillance to prevent the spread of highly contagious illnesses like measles, even as outbreaks in other parts of the state are brought under control.