North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is reporting one confirmed measles case in Traill County and another case in Pembina County for a statewide total of 23 confirmed cases to date in 2026. This is the first case reported in Traill County.

The United States has confirmed 1,136 cases in 2026. Manitoba, Canada, is currently reporting an outbreak of measles. Globally, increased measles cases are being reported in many countries.

Unvaccinated individuals are at the highest risk of contracting measles. Community immunity for measles is achieved when more than 95% of a community is vaccinated, protecting those who are too young, immunocompromised, or otherwise unable to receive vaccination. Vaccination rates have declined in North Dakota, with 80% of children age 19-35 months and 89% of North Dakota kindergarteners up to date with measles vaccination recommendations. Local rates vary greatly, with some areas more susceptible to outbreaks.

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is routinely recommended at 12-15 months of age with a second dose at 4-6 years of age.

Pembina County, North Dakota is currently considered an outbreak, so ND HHS is recommending early and accelerated vaccination for some individuals residing in or traveling to that county.