A recent case of measles has been reported in a traveler from another state who passed through Asheville, North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, alongside the Buncombe County Health and Human Services Division of Public Health, is addressing the situation to protect public health. To maintain privacy, further details about the individual will not be disclosed.
The potential exposure site has been identified as the Holiday Inn Express located at 435 Smokey Park Highway in Asheville. Anyone who was at this location on August 26, between 1 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., may have been exposed. Monitoring for symptoms is advised until September 16, 2026. In cooperation with BCHHS, the hotel has informed both guests and staff about the possible exposure. Those experiencing symptoms should immediately contact their local health department and avoid public places unless seeking medical care. It is recommended to call ahead before visiting a healthcare facility to minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
Vaccination Recommendations
Health authorities urge unvaccinated individuals aged one year and older to receive the measles vaccine. This recommendation extends to infants aged 6-11 months who will be traveling internationally or to areas with active outbreaks. The NCDHHS provides a measles immunity checker tool for those uncertain about their immunity status.
Current Measles Statistics
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of August 27, 2026, there have been 2,887 confirmed measles cases in 47 jurisdictions nationwide, marking the highest count since the widespread use of the second MMR vaccine dose in the early 1990s. In North Carolina, 24 cases were recorded from December 2025 to February 2026, with no new cases reported since February.
Understanding Measles
Measles is an airborne respiratory illness that spreads via coughs and sneezes or through contact with infected secretions. The virus can survive in the air for up to two hours where the infected person was present. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days post-exposure but can manifest up to 21 days later. Key symptoms include:
- High fever (potentially exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots inside the mouth appearing two to three days after symptoms start (Koplik Spots)
- A rash that begins on the face and spreads to the body, emerging three to five days after symptoms start
Prevention Through Vaccination
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is highly effective. It is advised for all individuals aged one year and older to ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccination. North Carolina residents can consult their healthcare providers or local health departments to learn more about obtaining the vaccine and scheduling appointments. The vaccine is available through the Vaccines for Children program for eligible participants.
For further details on measles, you can visit dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles.
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