In a recent health alert, officials in North Carolina are closely monitoring a new measles case in Polk County, marking the state’s second confirmed case of 2025. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) announced this on December 31, identifying the case as an unvaccinated child who had visited areas in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, where a major outbreak is currently occurring. The child, who developed symptoms prior to Christmas, has since fully recovered.
This instance marks the first connection between North Carolina’s measles cases and the outbreak in South Carolina. Earlier this year, in June, another case in North Carolina involved an international traveler, according to NCDHHS.
Upon suspicion of measles, Polk County officials quickly initiated contact-tracing procedures to find potential exposures. Kellie Cannon, Polk County Public Information Officer, noted that individuals who are up to date with their MMR vaccine are not required to quarantine. As a precaution, thirteen individuals are currently quarantined, though no further cases have been reported in Polk County, Cannon added.
Measles is recognized as a highly contagious virus, capable of spreading through the air and remaining in an area for up to two hours post-exposure. Symptoms typically appear between seven to 21 days after contact and may include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a characteristic rash that covers the body.
Dr. Zack Moore, State Epidemiologist, emphasized the critical role of vaccination in combating measles. “Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” Moore stated. “It is important to check with your health care provider to ensure you are current with all your vaccines.”
Efforts to monitor the situation and disseminate information are ongoing, with Polk County health officials working alongside NCDHHS. Further details on this case and access to the state’s measles immunity checker tool are available at PolkNC.gov/CDU.
