Cavalier

The North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is reporting one confirmed case of measles in Pembina County. This is the second measles case reported in North Dakota in 2026 and the first from Pembina County.  

The individual was unvaccinated and likely acquired the infection within the state. HHS is continuing its investigation to determine the source of exposure, as the individual reported no recent out-of-state or international travel. This case is not linked to the previously reported case in Williams County.  

HHS, in coordination with Pembina County Public Health, is identifying and notifying individuals who may have been exposed.  

Public Exposure Locations

Members of the public who were present at the following Pembina County and Grand Forks County locations on these dates and at these times may have been exposed.  

• Charras and Tequila Mexican Cuisine, 3915 32nd Ave. S. in Grand Forks on Feb. 4, between noon and 3 p.m. CT
• Cavalier Public School gymnasium, 300 Main St. E. in Cavalier on Feb. 4, between 3:45-7 p.m. CT
• Clinic Care waiting room, 301 Mountain St. E. in Cavalier on Feb. 6 between 8:30-11 a.m. CT

Exposed individuals are encouraged to monitor for symptoms and contact a health care provider if symptoms develop. Individuals who think they have measles should call first before seeking health care to avoid spreading measles to others. If not vaccinated, exposed individuals should quarantine (stay at home) for 21 days after the date of exposure.

Because the new case is not linked to other cases or travel, there is concern about potential community transmission. As a precaution, HHS recommends that all residents and travelers to Pembina County ensure they are vaccinated against measles.  

HHS recommends:

• Infants ages 6 through 11 months who reside in Pembina County consider an early dose of MMR vaccine. (Infants younger than 6 months are not eligible for vaccination.)
• Children 12 months of age and older receive their first MMR dose if they have not already, followed by a second dose at least 28 days later.
• Children who have received two doses of MMR after 12 months of age are considered fully vaccinated.
• Adults born before 1957 are generally presumed immune due to natural exposure.

Individuals can review their immunization records at hhs.nd.gov/IRR or by contacting their health provider. Vaccines are available through most clinics, and for families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program offers support through local providers.  

“When measles appears in a community without a travel link, it signals that the virus may be spreading more broadly,” said Molly Howell, director of HHS Disease Control and Forensic Pathology. “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.”

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can be serious, particularly for young children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Measles spreads easily through the air and can remain in a room and on surfaces for up to two hours after a person who is contagious leaves that space. Individuals with measles are contagious for several days before and after symptoms appear. Symptoms often include fever, cough, runny nose and eye irritation, followed by a widespread rash.

There is no specific medical treatment for measles, though antibiotics may be used when people with measles develop a secondary bacterial infection.  

For more information about measles or immunizations, contact the HHS Immunization Unit at 701-328-2378, 711 (TTY) or visit hhs.nd.gov/measles.