The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live fireside chat and tele-town hall on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 6 to 7 p.m. to discuss what North Carolina families need to know about recent measles cases and guidance and how vaccines protect children and teens from serious, preventable diseases.
Dr. Kelly Kimple, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Public Health, will moderate the event. The panel will also feature additional experts who will provide resources and guidance for families, including Dr. Jennifer Mullendore, Medical Director at Buncombe County Health and Human Services.
The fireside chat will stream live from NCDHHS Facebook, X (Twitter) and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext. 130378#.
Fireside chat and tele-town hall panelists will discuss the following:
- What to know about recent measles cases and guidance
- Where to find resources on vaccines for children and teens
- Ways to find a health care provider near you and access care
Measles cases are increasing across the state, with the Measles Cases and Outbreaks Dashboard reporting 22 cases in North Carolina since late December 2025. NCDHHS continues to recommend all unvaccinated individuals ages one year and older receive the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine to protect themselves and those around them. Additionally, NCDHHS recommends health care providers consider early vaccination for infants living in or routinely visiting certain areas in North Carolina. Parents in areas where there has been community transmission of measles are encouraged to speak with their health care provider about the option of early vaccination for infants 6 to 11 months old. People who think they might have measles should call first before visiting a health care provider.
Reach out to a health care provider or local health department for information on ways to obtain the vaccine and schedule an appointment. NCDHHS provides resources to help communities stay informed. Additional guidance about measles and information on the MMR vaccine is available on NCDHHS’ Division of Public Health website.
Children and teens are more vulnerable to certain diseases. This includes measles, as 17 out of the 22 reported cases in the state occurred in children ages 17 and younger. The MMR vaccine is one of several recommended vaccines that help protect children from preventable diseases so they can stay healthy, learn and grow. If you have questions about vaccines, start a conversation with a health care provider today. To learn more about recommended vaccines for children and teens and how to find a provider, visit VaccinesForKids.nc.gov.