Measles Cases Rise as State Health Plan Partners With Novant, County Expands Services
Charlotte, NC – March 7, 2026 – Measles cases climb in Mecklenburg as state health plan partners with Novant and county expands neighborhood services.
Measles cases reported in Mecklenburg County
North Carolina is reporting 23 confirmed measles cases across Union, Burke, Cabarrus and Mecklenburg counties, according to WSOC-TV, citing state health officials. The update comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports measles activity running higher than expected nationally.
Local officials have previously issued exposure notices tied to specific locations in the Charlotte area. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that can spread through the air and by contact with infected droplets. Public health leaders continue to monitor the situation and share updates as needed.
Residents are encouraged to follow guidance from Mecklenburg County Public Health and the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services regarding vaccination records and exposure notifications.
State Health Plan announces Novant partnership
In a separate development affecting many public employees in the Charlotte region, the North Carolina State Health Plan and Novant Health announced a new partnership on March 4. The agreement expands access to what officials describe as high-quality, no-cost surgical care for eligible plan members across the state.
The announcement, released by the Office of the State Treasurer, positions the partnership as part of a broader effort to manage long-term healthcare costs while maintaining access to care for teachers, state employees and retirees. Novant Health operates multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities serving Charlotte and surrounding communities.
Plan officials said more details about eligibility and participating services are available through the State Health Plan.
Northwest Charlotte sees expanded health and housing support
Mecklenburg County leaders also highlighted early results from enhanced health, housing and support services in the Catherine Simmons Avenue area of northwest Charlotte. In an update shared March 4, the county reported that additional public health outreach and community-based services have been directed to the neighborhood over the past three months.
According to the county, public health teams have provided comprehensive STI testing and education to residents, while outreach partners have connected individuals to behavioral health support, benefits assistance, shelter and other basic needs. County officials said the strategy is intended to address both immediate health concerns and longer-term stability.
Leaders described the effort as part of a coordinated response linking public health, housing and social services to improve overall community well-being.
Sources
https://www.wsoctv.com/news/local/cdc-measles-cases-surge-six-times-higher-than-expected-an-entire-year/EGT4KWPURZBGTIJ5YRWJOGM2O4/
https://www.nctreasurer.gov/news/press-releases/2026/03/04/state-health-plan-and-novant-health-announce-partnership-provide-access-high-quality-no-cost
https://pi.mecknc.gov/top-stories/top-stories-march-4
If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.
