Measles Outbreak in North Carolina: 17 Cases Reported

Raleigh, December 28, 2023 — North Carolina health officials are currently tracking 17 cases of measles across the state since December, signaling a potential resurgence of the highly contagious virus.

Rising Cases Reflect National Trend

The increase in measles cases in North Carolina mirrors a larger national outbreak, with nearly 1,000 cases reported in neighboring South Carolina.

Measles is preventable with vaccination, and the majority of recent infections in North Carolina have occurred among unvaccinated individuals under the age of 18.

While North Carolina’s case count remains significantly lower than South Carolina’s, the state has identified two additional cases just this week, according to data from the state health department’s measles dashboard. This data underscores the importance of vaccination to protect both individuals and communities.

Where are Cases Being Reported?

Cases have been confirmed in the Asheville and Charlotte metropolitan areas, but currently, no cases have been reported in the Triad region. Despite this, public health officials are urging residents to proactively take preventative measures to minimize the risk of infection.

Guilford County and Forsyth County Divisions of Public Health are offering weekly immunization appointments in Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem to help ensure residents have access to the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Families can easily verify their vaccination status by contacting their local healthcare provider or by reaching out to the North Carolina Immunization Registry.

• Measles cases in North Carolina have reached 17 since December.
• The majority of cases are occurring in unvaccinated youth under 18.
• Cases have been identified in Asheville and Charlotte.
• Immunization appointments are available in Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem.
• Residents can verify vaccination status through healthcare providers or the NC Immunization Registry.

What are the symptoms of measles? Measles typically begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A rash then develops, usually starting on the face and spreading downward. Complications from measles can be serious, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death.