What’s Happening?

North Carolina is currently seeing a measles outbreak. Health officials have confirmed 5 measles cases since late December 2025. Multiple cases are coming from Buncombe County, and a recent case in Rutherford County. Several of these cases track back to the ongoing measles outbreak in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, where hundreds of cases were reported in early January. 

Quick FACTS

• Public exposure alerts have been issued in NC.
• Contact tracing and quarantines are underway to limit further spread.
• Individuals who may have been exposed have been notified by local health departments, and officials are continuing to monitor for additional cases.
• The outbreak is part of a larger regional resurgence of measles.

How it started

• Health Officials say the outbreak began with the exposure linked to cases outside of the state, many from Spartanburg County, South Carolina. 
• Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes – airborne. 
• The virus can remain in the air for hours, making it highly contagious, especially in public places.

Who’s at risk and why

• Unvaccinated individuals are most at risk. 
• Infants who are too young to receive the vaccine and immunocompromised individuals have a higher risk of severe illness.
• Schools, childcare centers, and crowded indoor spaces are the prime conditions for the disease to spread and exposure to occur. 

What officials are saying

• State and federal health officials emphasize that the MMR vaccine is highly effective at preventing measles.
• Officials say the risk to fully vaccinated individuals remains low.
• PSA’s continuously go out on the locations of the cases and hot lines for those who may have been exposed.
• Residents are encouraged to watch for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if exposed or simply experiencing signs. 

What this means for schools

• Schools may issue exposure notifications if a case is identified.
• Unvaccinated students could face temporary exclusion or quarantine following exposure.
• Families are encouraged to keep students home if they feel sick and to follow school health guidance.

Why it matters

• Measles was once declared eliminated in the U.S., making outbreaks largely preventable.
• Recent cases highlight the impact of declining vaccination rates.
• It is somewhat of a more controllable disease now with the health technology we have; however, it is still a major threat to any individual’s health and should be taken very seriously.

Wrap it Up

While the current risk remains low for vaccinated individuals, health officials highlight the importance of staying up-to-date and monitoring symptoms. Students and families can find accurate updates through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and the CDC. Staying informed and following public health guidance helps protect the entire community.