North Dakota Reports First Measles Case in Grand Forks County

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has confirmed one case of measles in Grand Forks County, marking the first reported case in the county for 2026.

The individual likely acquired the infection within the state and reported no recent out-of-state or international travel, according to HHS.

This case brings North Dakota’s total confirmed measles cases to 33 for the year, with five individuals hospitalized to date.

Statewide, 25 of those infected were unvaccinated, six had received two doses of the MMR vaccine, and two had unknown vaccination status.

The infected person visited public locations in Grand Forks County during their infectious period, including the emergency department at Altru Health System on Sunday, April 12.

Specific exposure windows at the Altru Emergency Department were from 11:15 a.m. To 4 p.m. And from 5:45 p.m. To 9:45 p.m. On April 12.

Anyone present during those times may have been exposed, with the last day to watch for symptoms being May 5.

Health officials advise that vaccinated individuals (with at least one dose of MMR or MMRV vaccine) should monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure but do not need to quarantine.

Unvaccinated individuals should quarantine, stay home, and monitor for symptoms for 21 days after last exposure.

If symptoms develop, individuals are urged to contact a health care provider before visiting in person to allow for special arrangements that protect others from possible exposure.

Measles is highly contagious, spreading through the air and remaining infectious in a room for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.

Individuals with measles are contagious for several days before and after symptoms appear, which often include fever, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and a widespread rash.

Nationally, the United States has confirmed 1,714 measles cases in 2026 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

North Dakotans are encouraged to watch for signs of measles and consult a trusted health care provider about vaccination, particularly if unvaccinated or unsure of their immunization status.