Polk County hits eight measles cases since December as exposures are traced

North Carolina health officials confirm Polk County’s eighth measles case since December, with exposures at Polk County High School in Columbus, Food Lion in Columbus, and the Tryon International Equestrian Center General Store in Mill Spring. Residents, especially the unvaccinated (12 months and older), are urged to get the MMR vaccine; exposed individuals should monitor for measles symptoms for up to 21 days and contact local health departments if concerned. Vaccinated individuals are not considered high risk but should stay alert for symptoms.