Mecklenburg County, January 13, 2026
Public health officials in Mecklenburg County reported the detection of the measles virus in wastewater samples from the Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant. This finding raises concerns about community exposure, prompting health authorities to recommend that residents check their vaccination status. Despite no confirmed measles cases in the county, the situation arises amidst growing outbreaks of the virus in the Carolinas and across the U.S. Public health officials stress the importance of vaccination as the most effective means of preventing widespread outbreaks.
Charlotte, North Carolina
The measles virus has been detected in wastewater samples from the Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility in Mecklenburg County, public health officials announced on Monday, January 12, 2026. This detection signals potential community exposure, prompting Mecklenburg County Public Health to urge residents to verify their vaccination status. While no confirmed measles cases have been identified within Mecklenburg County itself as of the announcement, the finding comes amidst a significant surge in measles cases across both North and South Carolina, and a concerning increase nationwide.
The discovery in the wastewater system serves as an early warning, indicating that the virus may be circulating in the community even without active reported cases. Public health authorities are actively investigating and monitoring the situation, emphasizing that vaccination remains the most effective defense against a large-scale outbreak. Mecklenburg County Public Health is offering same-day walk-in services for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine at all clinic locations. The last confirmed measles case in Mecklenburg County was recorded in 2024.
Rising Measles Cases Across the Carolinas
North Carolina has recently reported six measles cases as of January 9, 2026, or five cases since late December, in various counties. These include cases in Polk County, Buncombe County, and Rutherford County. Three of the cases in Buncombe County involved siblings, some of whom had traveled to Spartanburg County, South Carolina, a known outbreak area. Critically, the case identified in Rutherford County had no discernible source of exposure, which suggests that other undetected measles cases might be present within the state. North Carolina initiated measles virus testing in wastewater at 28 sites in June 2025 and currently conducts weekly testing at 34 locations statewide.
Across the border, South Carolina is grappling with an extensive measles outbreak, primarily concentrated in Spartanburg County, which has now exceeded 300 cases. As of January 9, 2026, the outbreak had reached 310 cases, with 99 new infections confirmed in the preceding three days. A substantial majority of those infected in South Carolina, approximately 256 individuals, were unvaccinated before contracting the virus. Children aged 5 to 17 years account for the largest proportion of cases, totaling 206 out of the 310 reported infections. Public health officials in South Carolina have noted that some cases are linked to travel or close contacts, while others lack an identified source, pointing to the possibility of broader community circulation. South Carolina remains one of two active measles hotspots in the United States.
Nationwide Trends and Public Health Concerns
The current regional situation mirrors a troubling nationwide trend. In 2025, the United States recorded 2,144 confirmed measles cases, marking the highest number since 1991. This figure is particularly concerning as it is the highest since measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Data from 2025 also indicates 49 reported outbreaks across the country, with 88% of confirmed cases linked to these outbreaks. A significant 93% of these cases involved unvaccinated individuals.
Contributing to this resurgence is a decline in vaccination coverage among U.S. kindergartners, which fell from 95.2% during the 2019-2020 school year to 92.7% in the 2023-2024 school year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to strongly recommend that all children receive immunization against measles.
Understanding Measles: Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and also via direct contact. The virus can remain suspended in the air or active on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected individual has left a room. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure, and include a high fever that can spike to over 104 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A characteristic rash of tiny red spots usually emerges three to five days after these initial symptoms, often starting on the face at the hairline and spreading down the rest of the body.
The disease can lead to serious health complications, and approximately one in five people in the United States who contract measles require hospitalization. Children under the age of five are particularly vulnerable to severe complications. Alarmingly, around 90% of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected.
Vaccination remains the most effective strategy for preventing measles. The MMR vaccine is both safe and highly effective. Children are advised to receive two doses: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years of age. While one dose provides 93% effectiveness against measles, two doses boost protection to 97%.
Public health officials advise anyone experiencing measles symptoms to contact their healthcare provider, clinic, or emergency department immediately before visiting, to receive instructions on how to prevent further spread of the disease. Individuals with measles symptoms should stay home from work or school for four days after the rash appears. If a person is not immune and may have been exposed, wearing a mask in indoor public spaces and around unvaccinated individuals for three weeks after exposure is recommended to prevent transmission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the latest news about measles in Mecklenburg County?
Measles virus was detected in wastewater samples from the Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility in Mecklenburg County on Monday, January 12, 2026. While no confirmed cases have been identified in the county, this signals potential community exposure.
Are there measles cases in North Carolina?
Yes, as of January 9, 2026, North Carolina has reported six recently reported measles cases, or five cases since late December, in Polk County, Buncombe County, and Rutherford County.
What is the situation with measles in South Carolina?
South Carolina is experiencing an ongoing measles outbreak, primarily in Spartanburg County, with over 300 cases reported. As of January 9, 2026, 310 cases were reported in the current outbreak, with 99 new cases in the past three days.
What are the key symptoms of measles?
Measles symptoms include a high fever that may spike to more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, followed by a rash. The rash typically appears three to five days after symptoms begin, starting on the face at the hairline and spreading down the body.
How effective is the measles vaccine?
One dose of the MMR vaccine is 93% effective at preventing measles, while two doses are 97% effective.
What are the public health recommendations for measles?
Public health officials recommend vaccination with the MMR vaccine. If symptoms develop, call your doctor, clinic, or emergency department immediately before visiting to prevent further spread. Stay home from work or school for four days after the rash appears. If not immune and potentially exposed, wear a mask in indoor public spaces and around unvaccinated individuals for three weeks after exposure.
Key Features of the Measles Situation in the Carolinas
| Feature | Mecklenburg County (State-level) | North Carolina (State-level) | South Carolina (State-level) | Nationwide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Status | Measles virus detected in wastewater (January 12, 2026). No confirmed cases currently identified. | Six recently reported cases as of January 9, 2026, or five cases since late December. | Ongoing outbreak with over 300 cases, primarily in Spartanburg County. | 2,144 confirmed cases in 2025, highest since 1991. 49 outbreaks reported in 2025. |
| Last Confirmed Case (County/State) | 2024 (Mecklenburg County) | Recent cases in Polk, Buncombe, Rutherford counties. | Ongoing outbreak since late 2025/early 2026. | N/A (Refers to individual state/county data) |
| Key Locations Affected | Sugar Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Facility (detection site). | Polk County, Buncombe County, Rutherford County. | Spartanburg County (main outbreak area). | Across 45 states in 2025. |
| Vaccination Status of Cases | N/A (No confirmed cases in Mecklenburg County) | N/A (Specific data for NC cases not detailed in sources) | Approximately 256 infected people were unvaccinated before infection. | 93% of confirmed cases in 2025 were unvaccinated. |
| Public Health Response | Offering same-day MMR vaccines. Investigating and monitoring. | NCDHHS urges vaccination. Wastewater testing at 34 sites weekly. | Alerts to healthcare providers, quarantines, isolation. | CDC continues to recommend measles immunization for all children. |
| Effectiveness of 2 MMR Doses | 97% effective | 97% effective | 97% effective | 97% effective |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Pedestrian Tragically Killed in Train Crash in Charlotte
Icy Conditions Lead to Widespread Disruptions in Charlotte
Charlotte’s Mixed Results in Road Safety Efforts
North Carolina Teachers Demand Better Pay and Funding
Local Nonprofits Enhance Community Resource Awareness in Port Charlotte
Rising Flu Deaths and Measles Outbreak Challenge Public Health in Carolinas
Major Overhaul of U.S. Childhood Vaccination Guidelines
Measles Outbreak Linked to Recent Case in North Carolina
Raleigh on Alert for Potential Measles Outbreak
Senate Confirms New CDC Director Amid Controversy
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
