Confirmed influenza cases declined in North Dakota last week, but influenza remains the primary, seasonal respiratory illness, according to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services.

The latest statewide report for the week ending Saturday, Feb. 14, provides a summary of respiratory disease activity in North Dakota, including influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Data is used for disease surveillance and monitoring of trends. All data are preliminary and subject to revision.

During the week ending Feb. 14, North Dakota reported 414 influenza cases, reflecting a decrease from the prior week. COVID-19 cases increased slightly, with 306 cases reported statewide. RSV activity also increased, with 77 cases identified during the reporting period.

Influenza test positivity and other laboratory indicators were not included in the summary provided. However, overall surveillance trends continue to show influenza as the primary driver of seasonal respiratory illness.

Based on current surveillance indicators, influenza activity in North Dakota remained categorized as high during the reporting week. COVID-19 activity was classified as moderate, while RSV activity remained low statewide.

During the reporting week, 29 influenza-related hospitalizations were reported, reflecting a decrease from the prior week. COVID-19 hospitalizations increased to 43. RSV hospitalizations increased slightly, with 11 hospitalizations reported.

Since the beginning of the 2025-26 respiratory season on Aug. 1, 2025, North Dakota has reported 9,225 influenza cases, 4,270 COVID-19 cases and 465 RSV cases.

Season-to-date hospitalization totals include 886 influenza-related hospitalizations, 625 COVID-19-related hospitalizations and 61 RSV-related hospitalizations statewide.

Vital records data indicate 19 influenza-related deaths reported during the season to date, reflecting a slight increase from the prior week. COVID-19-related deaths totaled 26, also reflecting a slight increase. No RSV-related deaths have been reported this season.

*Sidebar*

State reports 7 measles cases

By MDN STAFF

North Dakota health officials have confirmed seven confirmed cases of measles. Six cases are in Pembina County and one in Williams County. Two individuals have been hospitalized, and five of the cases involve adults over age 19.

According to the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, the cases remain under investigation. Public health officials are working to identify exposure sites and notify individuals who may have come into contact with infected persons.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through respiratory droplets and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected individual leaves an area. Early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes, followed by a widespread rash that typically appears several days later.

Health officials are urging residents to review their vaccination status. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective protection against infection. Individuals who are unvaccinated or unsure of their immunization history are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.

Anyone who believes they may have been exposed or who develops symptoms consistent with measles is advised to call ahead before seeking medical care to help limit potential spread.