County Health Officials Monitor Rise in Vaccine Preventable Diseases

Buncombe County Public Health’s Communicable Disease Team is currently monitoring a rise in several vaccine preventable illnesses across the county, with varicella, also known as chickenpox, circulating widely and pertussis, known as whooping cough, also increasing. Public health staff identified a large varicella outbreak in mid November at a private school in western Buncombe County, a situation linked to a high number of unvaccinated individuals among students and staff.

Health officials said the uptick in cases comes as measles continues to increase nationwide, prompting a reminder that timely vaccination remains the most effective protection. The county provided guidance on testing, isolation, and vaccination resources and included contact information for Buncombe County Public Health for residents seeking help or more information.

Parents and guardians are being asked to confirm that children are up to date on routine immunizations, to keep symptomatic children at home, and to contact a healthcare provider promptly for testing and evaluation. These steps are aimed at limiting spread in schools, daycares, and other community settings and at protecting infants, pregnant people, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems who face greater risk of severe illness.

Local clinics and school health staff may see increased demand for evaluation and immunization services as awareness grows. Public health monitoring will guide any further recommendations or interventions, including targeted outreach in communities with low vaccine coverage. Residents concerned about exposure or symptoms are advised to follow the county guidance and to use the contact information provided by Buncombe County Public Health to arrange testing, receive vaccine referrals, or obtain additional instructions.

Maintaining high vaccination coverage and isolating symptomatic individuals are the immediate steps county officials emphasize to reduce transmission and protect the most vulnerable members of the community.