ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Buncombe County health officials have confirmed a new case of measles in a child, marking the sixth case in the county since December. The child is currently in isolation, and officials are not releasing further identifying information.
Possible exposure sites
Public health officials say individuals who visited the following locations at the listed times may have been exposed:
- Food Lion, 35 Westridge Market Place, Candler, Jan. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Mission Hospital Emergency Department Waiting Room, 509 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, Jan. 16 from 5:15 p.m. to 7:50 p.m. and again from 10 p.m. to midnight
Buncombe County Health and Human Services, in coordination with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), is working with these facilities to identify and contact potentially exposed individuals. Anyone who visited these locations and has not been contacted is urged to call 828-250-6100.
Health officials urge call ahead
Residents who develop symptoms are advised to call their doctor, urgent care or hospital before visiting in person.
“To help stop the spread of this highly contagious disease, please call ahead and let them know your symptoms,” Buncombe County Public Health Director Dr. Ellis Matheson said in a news release. “Measles is one of the most contagious diseases out there, and calling ahead ensures we keep our most vulnerable population safe.”
Symptoms of measles, which typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure, include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots), and a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads. Measles can also lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain swelling, diarrhea, and immune system suppression.
Laboratory testing is not recommended for individuals who have been exposed unless symptoms develop.
Vaccination key to prevention
Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing infection. Officials urge residents to ensure vaccinations are up to date and to contact their healthcare provider if unsure of their vaccination status.
For more information, residents can visit the NCDHHS measles dashboard or the Buncombe County FAQ page.
