NCDHHS shares provider guidance, updates as Measles cases rise

RALEIGH, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced Tuesday 22 measles cases in the state since late December 2025.

With cases on the rise, the NCDHHS encourages everyone one and older to get vaccinated and speaking to your healthcare provider about early vaccination for your child.

“The rise in measles cases is concerning, especially since most infections are affecting unvaccinated children,” said Dr. Zack Moore, NCDHHS State Epidemiologist. “Measles is highly contagious, but it is also preventable. We strongly encourage parents in areas where there has been community transmission of measles to speak with their health care provider about the option of early vaccination for infants 6 to 11 months old.”

NCDHHS says most North Carolina measles cases have been associated with known outbreaks including the one in South Carolina, affecting unvaccinated people.

Areas where early vaccination for infants 6 to 11 months should be considered is in Buncombe County, Cabarrus County, Gaston County, Iredell County, Lincoln County, Mecklenburg County, Rowan County, and Union County.

All people who have been exposed, regardless of vaccination status may be contacted by their local health department or an NC Public Health Outreach Team member.

Symptoms of measles usually begin 7-14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• Tiny white spots in mouth
• Red, raised, blotchy rash