Measles, a highly contagious disease that was nearly eliminated in the United States, is making a comeback across multiple states, and children remain the most vulnerable population. Buncombe County, North Carolina, has confirmed seven measles cases since January 2026, with several linked to an ongoing outbreak in South Carolina . The resurgence underscores a critical gap in childhood immunization coverage and highlights what public health officials say is essential for protecting kids: keeping vaccination rates high and responding quickly when cases emerge.

Why Is Measles Spreading Again in 2026?

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known to public health. A single infected person can spread the virus to up to 90% of unvaccinated people they encounter. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, making it nearly impossible to contain without widespread immunity . The current outbreak affecting Buncombe County and neighboring South Carolina demonstrates how quickly measles can cross county and state lines, especially when vaccination coverage dips below the threshold needed for community protection.

Public health officials have identified measles exposure at multiple locations across Asheville, including The Inn on Biltmore Estate, two Goodwill stores, an urgent care center, and a family health clinic . Individuals who visited these locations between February 3 and February 6, 2026, may have been exposed. The virus can remain contagious for up to 21 days after exposure, creating a window of uncertainty for families who don't know if they were in contact with an infected person.

What Do Parents Need to Know About Measles Symptoms and Testing?

Measles symptoms typically appear between seven and 21 days after exposure and include fever and rash . Early recognition is critical because it allows parents to contact their healthcare provider before visiting in person, preventing further spread to vulnerable populations like infants too young to be vaccinated and immunocompromised children. Public health officials emphasize that calling ahead is not just a courtesy; it's a protective measure that keeps waiting rooms safer for everyone.

Laboratory testing is not recommended for people who were exposed unless they develop symptoms . This approach conserves testing resources and reduces unnecessary clinic visits. However, anyone who develops measles symptoms should contact their primary care provider immediately and limit contact with others until cleared by a healthcare professional.

How to Protect Your Child from Measles

• Ensure MMR Vaccination: Two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles infection, making it one of the most reliable vaccines available . Children should receive the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 to 6 years old.
• Verify Vaccination Status: If you are unsure whether your child or you have been vaccinated, contact your healthcare provider or use an online vaccination status quiz to confirm immunity . This is especially important if your family has traveled or attended large gatherings.
• Stay Informed About Local Outbreaks: Monitor public health alerts from your county health department and check the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services measles dashboard for real-time case information and exposure locations .
• Call Ahead Before Medical Visits: If you develop symptoms of measles or suspect exposure, always call your doctor, hospital, or urgent care center before visiting in person . This simple step protects other patients and healthcare workers from unnecessary exposure.
• Keep All Childhood Immunizations Current: Measles is just one of many preventable diseases. Ensure your child receives all recommended childhood vaccinations on schedule to build comprehensive protection .

The Buncombe County Public Health Department has been conducting intensive contact tracing for each confirmed measles case, averaging about 100 phone calls per case to identify exposed individuals, determine their vaccination status, and assess whether quarantine or isolation is needed . This labor-intensive process demonstrates the real-world cost of measles outbreaks in terms of public health resources and staff time.

"To help stop the spread of this highly contagious disease, please call ahead and let them know your symptoms. We know that measles is one of the most contagious diseases out there, and calling ahead ensures that we keep our most vulnerable population safe from getting sick," said Dr. Ellis Matheson, Public Health Director for Buncombe County.

Dr. Ellis Matheson, Public Health Director, Buncombe County Public Health

Beyond measles prevention, Buncombe County's public health infrastructure supports child health through multiple programs. The Nurse-Family Partnership improves pregnancy outcomes and child health, while the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides supplemental nutrition to low-income families . The WIC clinic recently received a grant allowing it to write prescriptions for farmers market produce, directly connecting families with fresh fruits and vegetables while supporting local agriculture. Since October 2024, WIC participation in Buncombe County has increased by 5.6%, indicating growing access to nutritional support for vulnerable children .

The measles resurgence is a reminder that childhood health depends on more than individual choices; it requires community-wide vaccination coverage. When vaccination rates fall below approximately 95% in a community, measles can spread rapidly, putting infants, immunocompromised children, and pregnant women at serious risk. Parents who have questions about their child's vaccination status or who believe they may have been exposed to measles can contact the North Carolina Public Health Outreach Team at 844-628-7223 for guidance .