Updated: February 12, 2026

Buncombe County Public Health has received confirmation of one new case of measles in an adult in Buncombe County, bringing the total to 7 since January 2026. To protect patient privacy, no additional identifying information will be released. 

Separately, Buncombe County Public Health has been notified of additional measles exposure sites in the County connected to an individual with a positive measles diagnosis who is not a Buncombe County resident but visited multiple locations in the area.  

Individuals may have been exposed to measles at the following locations during the times listed. 

Exposure Locations

Public Health officials are actively conducting contact tracing and an investigation to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed. Buncombe County Public Health continues to monitor for additional measles cases and conduct testing as needed. 

If you were at any of the exposure locations listed above and have not been contacted, please call the N.C. Public Health Outreach Team at 844-628-7223 for further guidance.  

Call Ahead
Public health officials urge the community to call their doctor, hospital, urgent care center, or any other medical provider before visiting in person if they have symptoms to ensure they can provide care while limiting exposure to others.

“To help stop the spread of this highly contagious disease, please call ahead and let them know your symptoms,” said Dr. Ellis Matheson, Public Health Director for Buncombe County. “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.”

Laboratory testing is not recommended for individuals who were exposed unless they develop symptoms of measles. Symptoms may appear seven to 21 days after exposure and include fever and rash.

Key Takeaways

• Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles infection.
• Anyone who develops symptoms should contact their primary care provider immediately and limit contact with others.
• Call ahead before visiting a health care provider or emergency department to help prevent additional exposures.
• Ensure children are up to date on all recommended childhood immunizations.
• If you are unsure about your vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider. You can also use this online quiz.

Please visit the new NCDHHS measles dashboard for more information. An FAQ is also available at buncombenc.gov/measles.

Former Updates:

• January 20, 2026: We confirmed one additional case of measles in a child in Buncombe County which was a result of community spread. This was the sixth case of measles identified in Buncombe County since December.
• January 15, 2026: Two additional confirmed measles cases in preschool- and school-aged children in Buncombe County. These cases are linked to the ongoing measles outbreak in South Carolina.
• January 6, 2026: Three confirmed cases of measles limited to a single household have been identified in Buncombe County. These cases are linked to the ongoing measles outbreak in South Carolina.

Measles is a highly contagious illness that is on the rise nationally, with various states experiencing outbreaks. There is currently a large outbreak in Upstate South Carolina.

What is measles?

Measles spreads when someone infected speaks, coughs, sneezes, or breathes, and it can linger in the air up to two hours after the infected person has left the area.

It is a viral illness that impacts your nose, throat and lungs and symptoms that typically appear 7 to 14 days after contact with the virus. Typical symptoms include:

• Fever (may spike to more than 104°F)
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes. 
• Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots) 2-3 days after symptoms begin
• A rash: it starts on the face 3 to 5 days after the first symptoms and spreads to other parts of the body

How bad can it be?

Measles can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years of age. Common complications are ear infections and diarrhea. Serious complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and death.

Vaccination is Key

Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine provide strong protection. You’re protected if you were born before 1957, are vaccinated, or have lab proof of immunity. NCDHHS has a “Check Your Immunity” tool for measles on its website. If you are unsure of your vaccination status or immunity, please use this tool to learn more about your next steps.  

Measles is easily prevented through vaccination with the MMR vaccine. The state now recommends that health care providers consider early MMR vaccination for infants 6-11 months. The MMR vaccine is available from many primary care providers and the the County clinic:

Buncombe County Health and Human Services Immunization Clinic:

• 40 Coxe Ave., Asheville
• Walk- in: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday between 8-11:30 a.m. and on Tuesday and Thursday between 1-4:30 p.m. 
• Appointments: Call 828-250-5096

Is the MMR vaccine safe?

The MMR vaccine has been used for over 50 years and has an excellent safety record. Most people have no side effects. When they do occur, they are usually mild, such as a sore arm or low fever.

What should I do if I have measles symptoms?

1. Stay home and away from others.

2. Call your healthcare provider. Do not go to a medical clinic, urgent care, or emergency department without calling first to avoid exposing others. 

   • If you do not have a healthcare provider, call Buncombe County Communicable Disease staff at 828-250-5109.
3. You will be guided on testing, care, and when it is safe to return to work or school.

More FAQs and information about measles is at buncombenc.gov/measles.

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