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Measles Case Confirmed in Buncombe County, Prompts Public Health Alert

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. buncombe-county-prompts-public-health-alert.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 9:57 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locales: North Carolina, UNITED STATES

ASHEVILLE, N.C. - Buncombe County health officials confirmed a new case of measles today, Friday, February 13th, 2026, prompting a public health alert and investigation into potential exposures, notably including popular areas within the Biltmore Estate. This case marks the first confirmed instance of measles in the county in over three years, triggering concerns about a possible resurgence of the highly contagious disease and highlighting the importance of vaccination.

The Buncombe County Health Department (BCHD) announced the confirmation this afternoon, stating that they are actively tracing the source of the infection and working diligently to notify potentially exposed individuals. The primary focus of the initial investigation has been centered around recent activity at the Biltmore Estate, a major tourist destination attracting visitors from across the nation and internationally.

Biltmore Estate Exposures & Tourist Impact

The BCHD has identified several locations within the Biltmore Estate as potential exposure sites between February 6th and February 12th, 2026. These include the bustling Antler Hill Village, the meticulously maintained Biltmore House Gardens, and the historical Biltmore Legacy exhibit. This raises particular concerns due to the high volume of visitors these areas receive daily. Officials are urging anyone who visited these locations during the specified dates to be vigilant for symptoms and to proactively contact their healthcare provider if they develop any signs of illness.

The potential for widespread exposure at a location like Biltmore Estate is significant. The estate attracts not only local residents but a substantial number of tourists, meaning the infection could potentially spread beyond Buncombe County, even across state lines. The BCHD is coordinating with state and federal health agencies to monitor the situation and prevent further dissemination. Biltmore Estate management has stated they are fully cooperating with the health department, implementing enhanced sanitation protocols and posting informational signage to raise awareness among guests.

Understanding the Threat: Measles Symptoms and Severity

Measles, despite being preventable through vaccination, remains a highly contagious viral illness. Its resurgence in recent years globally has been attributed to declining vaccination rates. Symptoms typically manifest 7-14 days after exposure and begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes - often mistaken for a common cold. However, the defining symptom is a characteristic rash that spreads across the body, starting at the hairline and moving downwards.

While measles is usually not fatal, it can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children (under five years old), pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. Even in milder cases, measles can result in hospitalization and significant discomfort.

County and State Response & Vaccination Urgency

The BCHD is actively collaborating with local healthcare providers to identify and contact individuals who may have been exposed, particularly those who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. This includes reviewing patient records and conducting outreach efforts. The department is also strongly emphasizing the critical importance of vaccination as the most effective means of protection against measles.

"Measles is exceptionally contagious - more so than the flu or even COVID-19," explained Dr. Eleanor Vance, Director of the BCHD. "A single infected person can easily spread the disease to numerous others. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also contributes to herd immunity, shielding those who are unable to be vaccinated."

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) is providing support to Buncombe County, offering additional resources and expertise. State health officials are also monitoring for any potential spread to other counties. They are reinforcing the message about the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage rates throughout the state.

What You Can Do

Residents of Buncombe County and surrounding areas are urged to:

• Check Vaccination Status: Ensure you and your family members are up-to-date on measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.
• Monitor for Symptoms: Be vigilant for the symptoms of measles and seek medical attention immediately if they appear.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, cover your coughs and sneezes, and avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.
• Stay Informed: Visit the Buncombe County Health Department website ([https://www.buncombecounty.org/health/](https://www.buncombecounty.org/health/ - link is hypothetical)) or call their hotline for the latest updates and information.

This developing situation underscores the ongoing threat posed by preventable infectious diseases and the vital role of vaccination in protecting public health.