Measles Update
The measles outbreak in South Carolina is slowing, and few additional cases are being identified in North Carolina. For the latest North Carolina data, visit the NCDHHS Measles Dashboard. For information about the South Carolina outbreak, visit the SCDPH Measles Dashboard.
NCDHHS recommends all unvaccinated individuals ages one year and older receive measles vaccination to protect themselves and those around them. With increased risk for community spread, parents are especially encouraged to make sure their children are up to date on all their childhood immunizations, including the measles vaccine. The NCDHHS measles immunity checker tool is available for those who are unsure whether they might need additional protection. Contact your healthcare provider or Transylvania Public Health (828-884-3135) for information on receiving a measles vaccine.
Measles is highly contagious: 90% percent of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected. It is spread by direct person-to-person contact and through the air. The virus can linger in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves the area. A person with measles is contagious 4 days before to 4 days after the rash begins, meaning someone can spread measles before they know they are infected.
Symptoms of measles may include: high fever (may spike to more than 104 degrees); cough; runny nose; red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis); tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) 2-3 days after symptoms begin; and a rash that is red, raised, blotchy, usually starting at the hairline and spreading to the trunk, arms and legs 3-5 days after symptoms begin. Symptoms can start 7-21 days after being exposed. If symptoms of measles develop, please limit exposure to other people and call ahead before visiting the doctor or emergency room so steps can be taken to prevent exposure to others.
For more information about measles, please visit dph.ncdhhs.gov/measles.
Ongoing Community Health Assessment Process
The 2025 State of the County’s Health report has been released. This report provides updated morbidity and mortality data and an overview of progress made toward addressing our top health priorities of Mental Health, Substance Use, and Maternal Health. The next SOTCH will be released in March 2027.
SUMMER AT THE TOWN POOL WITH FRIENDS ON A HOT SUMMER DAY.
A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY LUNCH FOR ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE CO-WORKERS.
MATCHING TATTOOS WITH YOUR COUSINS, JUST LIKE YOU ALWAYS SAID YOU WOULD.
We also keep Transylvania County safe by offering immunizations, screening for health concerns, encouraging good nutrition, and more. Good public health is the backbone of a thriving, healthy community. Transylvania Public Health is already doing a lot to keep you healthy. Get to know us – there’s a lot more we can do for you.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday – Thursday
8:30am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pm
Friday
8:30am-5:00pm (last appt at 4:30pm)
828.884.3135
[email protected]
Communicable Disease FAX: 828.884.4272
(for CD reports, STD reports, bite reports)
Prepare Now for Hurricane Season
The Atlantic hurricane season started June 1. Are you ready? Forecasters are predicting an active hurricane season for 2025. Last year brought widespread storms across the Southeast and Caribbean, and this year is expected to be similar. Even though our region may not...
Fight The Bite
Mosquito and tick bites can be more than just annoying. They can make you really sick. It's important to protect yourself, your family, and your home from the diseases they carry. Click here to learn more about how to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks.
Cleaning Up After Vomiting and Diarrhea
If you or someone in your family has experienced vomiting or diarrhea, here are some cleaning guidelines that can help prevent the spread of disease: 1. Wear gloves when cleaning any vomit or stool. Remove and dispose of gloves carefully to avoid touching outside...
Respiratory Illness Guidance
The following guidance for COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses such as flu and RSV can help prevent the spread of these illnesses. People who are experiencing symptoms of any respiratory illness should stay home and stay away from others until symptoms have been...
NC Medicaid Expansion
Starting December 1, more people in North Carolina can get health coverage through Medicaid. Now people ages 19 through 64 with higher incomes are eligible, and you may be able to get health care coverage through Medicaid even if you did not qualify before. Medicaid...
PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITY.
Transylvania County is known for its natural beauty, making it a popular tourist destination and more importantly, a place for families to grow and thrive. We’d venture to say that without clean water, a healthy population, and a well-immunized community, this wouldn’t be so.
Transylvania Public Health is committed to keeping our county beautiful and its people healthy. We’re a quiet but steady partner in economic development, an outspoken player in community health and promotion, and a valued member of any health crisis or disaster preparedness team.