Topics Related to Families

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:

Diabetes affects more than 1.3 million people in NC — and that number keeps growing. Even more people are at risk. About 1 in 3 adults has prediabetes. Prediabetes can often be prevented or reversed with healthy lifestyle changes.This November, for Diabetes Awareness Month, take steps to lower your risk and help others do the same. Small changes can make a big difference.

Halloween is a time for costumes, fun and lots of candy! But before you or your kids dig into that trick-or-treat bag, take a few minutes to check the treats to make sure they’re safe.Be aware that some candy-like products, known as edibles, can contain ingredients that are not safe for children. They often look just like regular sweets, which makes it hard to tell the difference.Here are some simple ways to stay safe this Halloween:

Recent news releases:

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

Students are back in classrooms across NC, bringing new routines, friendships and challenges.One challenge too many students face is bullying. It's more than "kids being kids." Bullying can affect learning, safety and health.  With awareness and action, schools, parents and students can work together to spot it and stop it.What Bulling Looks LikeBullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior that often occurs repeatedly. It can be:

Ever wonder what a day in public health looks like? Much of it happens with little fanfare and behind the scenes. North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health works to protect you, your loved ones and the community.  We followed two staff members to share the behind the scenes of what they do every day to support NC.  

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.