Measles is spreading across the U.S.
Children who haven't gotten the MMR vaccine are most at risk. The vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and loved ones. Measles: What to Know
Topics Related to Epidemiology
In North Carolina, many families get their drinking water from private wells. Unlike city water, which is tested regularly by water providers, private well owners must test their own water. That means it is up to each family to make sure their water is safe.Water from private wells can contain harmful germs or chemicals you can’t see, smell or taste. If well water is not routinely tested, families may drink unsafe water without knowing it. This can lead to stomach problems, skin rashes or more serious health issues over time.
NCDHHS is reporting two new measles cases in siblings in Buncombe County. This brings the total number of measles cases in North Carolina to seven since late December. Both of the newly reported cases are connected to the ongoing outbreak in Spartanburg County, South Carolina.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is called the silent killer for a reason. You can't see it or smell it, but it can make you very sick — or even be deadly. Every year, more than 400 people in the United States die from carbon monoxide exposure, and thousands more get sick and need medical care.1November is National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month. It's a good reminder to check your home, car and workplace for ways to prevent CO exposure. All CO poisonings can be prevented.What is Carbon Monoxide?Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas produced by:
Protecting Our Communities, One Sample at a TimeDid you know we can track viruses in our communities through wastewater?When you flush the toilet or wash something down the drain, you might not think about it again. But that wastewater can actually help protect your community’s health. NCDHHS tests samples from select wastewater treatment plants across NC to see how COVID-19, flu and RSV are circulating.
North Carolina has reported its first flu-related death of the 2025-26 season. An adult in the western part of the state died from flu complications in early October.“This is a sad reminder that flu infections can be serious and, in some cases, even fatal. We encourage everyone to take preventative measures against flu and other respiratory illnesses like getting your yearly flu shot, regularly washing your hands, covering your cough and staying home when sick to avoid infecting others.”— State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore
Pharmacies in NC can now give COVID-19 vaccines without a prescription after a short discussion on the benefits and risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated its recommendations to allow this change.Due to this update, NCDHHS ended standing orders that allowed pharmacies to give COVID-19 vaccines without prescriptions. These orders are now not needed with the updated CDC recommendations.
As children across NC get ready to head back to school, it's a good time to make sure they are up to date on vaccines. Children and teens are more susceptible to certain diseases. Vaccines help protect your child and keep them healthy so they can learn and grow.Why vaccines matter"Health care providers and families have the same goal: A healthy future for all our children. Vaccines are an essential piece of child, teen and family well-being."-NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai
North Carolina has confirmed its first case of West Nile virus in 2025. The case was in a person who lives in Durham County. Around the same time, mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in Pitt County. This is a good reminder to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites.
NCDHHS Urges Caution Outdoors Amid Record High Heat-Related Illnesses