North Carolina, South Carolina, February 18, 2026
Both North Carolina and South Carolina are experiencing a troubling rise in measles cases, with North Carolina reporting 22 confirmed cases since December and South Carolina reporting 962 cases since last October. The outbreak has particularly impacted younger populations, with a significant number of infections among unvaccinated individuals. Public health officials are raising awareness about the importance of vaccinations as the nationwide case count continues to climb, emphasizing the significance of addressing this health challenge.
Raleigh
North Carolina has reported an increase in measles cases, reaching a total of 22 confirmed cases since December, with new instances contributing to the growing concern. This surge coincides with an intensifying measles outbreak in neighboring South Carolina, where the total number of cases has now reached 962 since last October. The nationwide tally for measles cases in 2026 continues to climb, highlighting a broader public health challenge.
South Carolina Outbreak Intensifies
The measles outbreak in South Carolina continues to expand, with the Department of Public Health announcing 12 additional cases on February 17, 2026, bringing the state’s cumulative total to 962 cases since last October. The outbreak’s epicenter remains Spartanburg County.
Demographics and Health Impacts in South Carolina
Among the 962 South Carolina cases, a significant portion affects younger populations: 615 individuals are between the ages of 5 and 17, and 253 are under the age of 5. Officials have noted 20 hospitalizations due to complications from the disease, affecting both adults and children.
The majority of confirmed cases in South Carolina are among unvaccinated residents, totaling 893 individuals. An additional 20 cases involve partially vaccinated individuals, 26 are in people who are fully vaccinated, and the vaccination status for 23 cases is unknown.
North Carolina Sees Rising Case Numbers
North Carolina health officials confirmed 22 measles cases in the state since December as of February 18, 2026. The surge is primarily concentrated among the state’s youth, with 18 of the 21 reported cases involving individuals aged 17 and younger.
Affected Areas and Vaccination Status in North Carolina
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services data indicates that 71% of individuals in North Carolina who have contracted measles since December are either unvaccinated or their vaccination status is unknown. Buncombe County currently leads the state with seven reported cases.
Only one hospitalization has been reported out of 21 confirmed cases in North Carolina to date, maintaining relatively low hospitalization rates despite the increase in infections.
Public exposure concerns were also raised following visits by an individual with measles to a Chapel Hill Goodwill in early February and potential exposures in neighboring Durham County on February 6, including at a Goodwill, Chubby’s Tacos, and Plato’s Closet.
Nationwide Measles Situation
As of February 12, 2026, a total of 910 confirmed measles cases were reported in the United States in 2026. These cases were reported by 24 jurisdictions, with 6 additional cases identified among international visitors to the U.S.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that there have been 5 new outbreaks reported in 2026, and 90% of confirmed cases, totaling 822 out of 910, are associated with these outbreaks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the latest number of measles cases in North Carolina?
- As of February 18, 2026, North Carolina has confirmed 22 measles cases in the state since December.
- How many measles cases have been reported in South Carolina recently?
- As of February 17, 2026, South Carolina has reported a total of 962 measles cases since last October.
- What is the nationwide total of measles cases in 2026?
- As of February 12, 2026, there have been 910 confirmed measles cases reported in the United States in 2026.
- How many people have been hospitalized in South Carolina due to the measles outbreak?
- There have been 20 hospitalizations in South Carolina due to complications from measles.
- Who is primarily affected by the measles outbreak in South Carolina?
- In South Carolina, 615 cases are between the ages of 5 and 17, and 253 are under the age of 5. The majority of cases, 893, are among unvaccinated residents.
Key Features of the Measles Outbreak
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Nationwide Cases (2026, as of Feb 12) | 910 confirmed cases across 24 jurisdictions | Nationwide |
| South Carolina Cases (as of Feb 17, 2026) | 962 cases since October | State-level |
| North Carolina Cases (as of Feb 18, 2026) | 22 cases since December | State-level |
| South Carolina Hospitalizations | 20 | State-level |
| North Carolina Hospitalizations | 1 | State-level |
| High-Risk Group (SC) | Ages 5-17 (615 cases), under 5 (253 cases) | State-level |
| High-Risk Group (NC) | Youth aged 17 and younger (18 of 21 cases) | State-level |
| Primary Affected (SC) | Unvaccinated individuals (893 cases) | State-level |
| Primary Affected (NC) | Unvaccinated or unknown vaccination status (71% of cases) | State-level |
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