State health officials on Friday confirmed the first case of the measles in Cass County in 2026 as North Dakota surpasses last year’s total for measles infections.

North Dakota Health and Human Services said the person in Cass County, which includes Fargo, likely acquired the infection within the state. The agency is investigating the source of exposure, as the individual reported no recent out-of-state or international travel.

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North Dakota has had a total of 38 confirmed cases of measles this year through Friday and five people have been hospitalized. There were 36 measles cases in the state in 2025, which resulted in three hospitalizations.

There have been confirmed cases in eight counties.

People who think they have measles should call a healthcare provider before seeking treatment to avoid exposing others to measles, the health agency advises. People who are not vaccinated and are exposed to measles stay home and avoid public settings for 21 days after exposure.

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, the agency said.

Measles, mumps and rubella vaccines are available through most clinics. For families in need, the federally funded Vaccines for Children Program provides vaccines at no cost through participating providers.

The United States has confirmed 1,893 cases in 2026, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.