Measles Case in Unvaccinated Child Linked to SC Outbreak, NCDHHS Says

RALEIGH—A case of measles has been confirmed in Polk County, North Carolina, according to an announcement from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). The affected individual is an unvaccinated child who visited areas in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, which have been linked to a significant measles outbreak in the region. The child experienced symptoms before Christmas but is now fully recovered. Due to privacy considerations, no further personal details will be disclosed.

Collaboration between NCDHHS and the South Carolina Department of Public Health has been ongoing since the outbreak began. This incident marks the second measles case in North Carolina this year, with the first case involving an international traveler back in June 2025. It is the first North Carolina case thought to be connected to the South Carolina outbreak.

Health authorities strongly advise that unvaccinated individuals aged one year and older receive the measles vaccine to safeguard themselves and their communities.

Efforts to trace potential exposure sites are underway, with NCDHHS and Polk County’s Public Health Division working to identify where and when individuals might have been exposed to the virus from December 18 to December 26, 2025. Those who may have been exposed are being contacted to assess their immunity status and to discuss measures to prevent further transmission.

Individuals who visited the identified locations during the exposure window should verify their vaccination records or consult their healthcare provider to ensure they are up to date with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Individuals who were exposed are not recommended to undergo laboratory testing unless they exhibit symptoms such as fever and rash. Symptoms typically appear seven to 21 days post-exposure. If symptoms arise, it is advised to minimize contact with others and to notify healthcare facilities in advance of visits to prevent further spread.

North Carolina residents seeking more information on vaccination can consult their healthcare providers or local health departments. Eligible children can receive vaccines through the Vaccines for Children program. The NCDHHS also provides a measles immunity checker tool for those uncertain about their vaccination status. Further information about measles is available at dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles.

“Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” stated Dr. Zack Moore, NCDHHS State Epidemiologist. “It is important to check with your health care provider to ensure you are current with all your vaccines.”

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. It spreads via direct contact and airborne transmission, with the virus surviving for up to two hours in the air after an infected person has left the area. Symptoms usually develop 7-14 days following exposure and can include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a distinctive rash. Koplik spots, tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, may also appear.

Given the potential for community transmission, parents are urged to ensure their children receive all necessary vaccinations, including the measles vaccine. It is noted that 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will contract the disease.

According to the CDC, as of December 30, 2025, there have been 2,065 confirmed measles cases in the United States spanning 44 states. Of these, 24 cases involved international travelers, and 88% were linked to outbreaks. Hospitalizations occurred in 11% of cases, with three resulting in death.