POLK COUNTY — North Carolina health officials are investigating a presumed positive case of measles in a child in Polk County, marking the first local case linked to a severe ongoing outbreak in Upstate South Carolina.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced the case on Wednesday, Dec. 31. The child recently visited Spartanburg County, South Carolina — the epicenter of an outbreak reaching 176 cases this month. While the child developed symptoms before Christmas, officials say they have since recovered.
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State health officials are working to identify specific locations in Polk County where the public may have been exposed while the child was infectious between Dec. 18 and Dec. 26.
Because measles is highly contagious and can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left, NCDHHS and Polk County health agencies are reaching out to individuals believed to be at risk. Those contacted will have their immunity status verified and discuss steps to prevent further spread.
Early symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and often mimic a severe cold, including a high fever, cough, and red eyes. This is usually followed by a characteristic blotchy rash. Officials noted that 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to the virus will become infected.
If symptoms develop, health officials strongly advise calling a doctor or emergency room before arriving so the facility can take steps to protect other patients.
The latest case comes as the U.S. faces its highest measles numbers in over 30 years. As of Dec. 30, the CDC has reported 2,065 confirmed cases across 44 states, with 49 distinct outbreaks recorded this year. Data shows that 11% of cases required hospitalization, and three resulted in death.
“Getting vaccinated against measles continues to be the most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore. “It is important to check with your health care provider to ensure you are current with all your vaccines.”
Residents can verify their status via the NCDHHS measles immunity checker tool online or by contacting their local health department.
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