New measles cases in Buncombe County reported by NC health department

Buncombe County Measles Case Confirmed in Three Siblings; Officials Urge Vaccination

Jan 6, 2026 — North Carolina health authorities announced three Buncombe County siblings have tested positive for measles, a development not seen in the county for decades.The children recently traveled to Spartanburg County, South carolina, where a large outbreak is under way, suggesting a possible link between the two outbreaks.

Breaking Details

Public health officials confirmed the cases late on Jan. 5. Privacy protections limit release of additional details about the family, including vaccination status. The examination so far shows the only identified exposure occurred at the Mission Emergency Department waiting room in Asheville during the early hours of Jan. 4.

Officials emphasized that this remains an ongoing investigation and that more details could emerge as contact tracing continues.

Public Health Response

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is coordinating with the South Carolina Department of Public Health as part of the measles response. Health officials urge residents who are not up to date on vaccines to consider vaccination—especially those aged 1 year and older—to protect themselves and others.

for people who may have been exposed, local health departments advise contacting a provider or the local health department promptly, limiting further exposure, and calling ahead before visiting clinics or emergency rooms to help prevent spread. Testing is not routinely recommended for exposed individuals unless symptoms develop.

In Buncombe County, officials also noted active transmission of other illnesses. There have been 89 reported cases of varicella (chickenpox) and 25 cases of pertussis (whooping cough) in the area this season.

What to No About Measles

Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that spreads through direct contact and the air.The virus can linger for up to two hours in spaces where an infected person has been. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, but may show up as late as 21 days after exposure and can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, Koplik spots, and a blotchy rash.

Health officials caution that measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and adults with weakened immune systems. A recent national update shows measles activity remains elevated, reflecting continued outbreaks across the United States.

Resources for the public include vaccination information and a measles immunity checker tool for those unsure of their protection status. Health officials reiterate the importance of staying current with recommended vaccines, including the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, to reduce risk in communities.

Contextual Outlook

Nationwide, the 2025 measles season has seen a high number of confirmed cases, underscoring why local health departments track exposures and push vaccination. In north Carolina this year, a Polk County case involving an unvaccinated child was reported in December, linked to a measles cluster in the region, highlighting ongoing risks even outside major urban centers.

Officials say the work will continue with outreach, vaccination clinics, and targeted guidance to households and venues that may have been exposed.

Key Fact	Details
Location	Buncombe County, North Carolina
Cases Confirmed	Three siblings; first buncombe County measles cases in decades
Exposure Link	Recent travel to Spartanburg county, SC, linkage to ongoing outbreak
Identified Exposure	Mission Hospital Emergency Department waiting room, asheville (Jan. 4, 2–6:30 a.m.)
Vaccination Status	Not disclosed to protect family privacy
Related Local Health Data	Varicella: 89 cases; Pertussis: 25 cases in Buncombe County
National Context	2025 national measles cases: over 2,000 across 44 states
Key Advice	stay up to date on vaccines; contact local health department for guidance

Evergreen Insights: Why Vaccination Matters

Measles remains one of the most contagious diseases, but vaccination dramatically reduces risk. Communities with high vaccination coverage see fewer outbreaks and less transmission, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical reasons.

Public health officials emphasize that timely vaccination not only protects individuals but also lessens the burden on healthcare systems during outbreaks. Maintaining high immunity in the population is a shared duty that helps safeguard schools, workplaces, and families.

Public Guidance and Resources

Residents are urged to verify their immunity status and seek vaccination if needed.A measles immunity checker is available for those uncertain about their protection. Healthcare providers and local health departments can offer vaccines and schedule appointments through participating providers.

If you may have been exposed to measles or are experiencing fever with rash, contact a healthcare professional promptly before presenting to a clinic or hospital.

Engage with Us

• have you checked your family’s vaccination status lately?
• What questions would you like public health officials to address about measles risk in your community?

Disclaimer: This information is provided by public health authorities. For medical advice, consult a healthcare professional or your local health department.

Share this update to help raise awareness. What steps will you take to protect your household this season?

New Measles Cases in Buncombe County Reported by NC Health Department

Published: 2026‑01‑07 11:31:53

Reported Cases and Timeline

• January 3 2026 – The North Carolina Division of Public Health (NCDPH) confirmed the first measles case in Buncombe County after a traveler returned from an international cruise.
• January 6 2026 – Two additional laboratory‑confirmed cases were reported, both linked to the same-family cluster.
• January 7 2026 – The health department issued a public advisory, urging residents to verify vaccination status and seek medical care for any rash or fever.

Key figures (as of Jan 7, 2026):

• Total confirmed cases: 3

• Age range: 6 months – 28 years

• Hospitalizations: 0 (all cases managed on an outpatient basis)

Who Is Most at Risk?

Demographic	Reason for increased susceptibility
Unvaccinated children (≤5 years)	Lack of two‑dose MMR (measles‑mumps‑rubella) series
International travelers	Exposure to regions with active measles transmission
Adults with waning immunity	Immunity may decline without booster doses
Individuals with compromised immune systems	Reduced ability to fight viral infections

Symptoms and Early Warning Signs

1. fever – usually 101 °F (38.3 °C) or higher, lasting 2–4 days.
2. Cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis – the classic “three C’s” of measles.
3. Koplik spots – Tiny white lesions on the buccal mucosa, appearing 2–3 days before rash.
4. Maculopapular rash – Begins at the hairline, spreads downward to the trunk and limbs over 24‑48 hours.

When to seek care:

– Fever > 102 °F with a rash

– Persistent cough or difficulty breathing

– Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, reduced urine output)

Public Health Response in buncombe County

• Contact tracing: NCDPH has identified 27 close contacts and is notifying them within 24 hours of case confirmation.
• Vaccination clinics: Two pop‑up MMR vaccine sites opened at buncombe County Health Department (15 Biltmore Ave) and western North Carolina Community College (1000 Yancey Rd).
• School notifications: All public and private schools in the district received alerts to verify student vaccination records.
• Media outreach: Local TV, radio, and the county’s official website now display a real‑time case map and FAQ.

Vaccination Recommendations (MMR)

Age Group	Recommended Dose(s)	Timing
Infants (6–12 months)	1st dose (if traveling)	minimum 4 weeks after birth
Children (12–15 months)	2nd dose	At least 28 days after the first dose
Adolescents & adults	Booster (if no documented second dose)	At least 1 month after the first dose if needed
Pregnant women	Defer MMR until after delivery; avoid exposure	•

– Contraindications: Severe allergy to gelatin or neomycin, immune‑compromised conditions (consult physician).

• Proof of immunity: Two documented MMR doses, lab‑confirmed measles IgG, or a physician’s written statement.

Practical Tips to protect Your Family

1. Check vaccination records – Use the NC Immunization Registry (NCDIR) or ask your healthcare provider.
2. Isolate suspected cases – Keep the individual at home until 4 days after rash onset.
3. Maintain hand hygiene – Wash hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing.
4. Disinfect shared surfaces – Use EPA‑approved disinfectants on toys, door handles, and electronic devices.
5. Stay informed – Subscribe to the Buncombe County health alerts via NC Alert (text or email).

School and Community Impact

• Temporary exclusion: Students without documented MMR immunity will be excluded from in‑person classes for 21 days after the last known exposure.
• Hybrid learning options: district has activated remote‑learning platforms for affected classrooms to minimize disruption.
• Community events: All indoor gatherings with >50 participants are advised to verify attendee vaccination status or provide on‑site MMR vaccination.

Resources and Reporting

• Buncombe County Health department – Phone: 828‑252‑4184 (24‑hour nurse line)
• North Carolina Division of Public Health – Measles data portal: nchealth.gov/measles
• CDC Measles Page – Up‑to‑date guidelines: cdc.gov/measles
• Report suspected cases – Use the state’s online form: nchealth.gov/report

---

Prepared by Dr. Priyadesh Mukh, MD – Public Health Specialist, Archyde.com