All articles tagged with #buncombe county
Buncombe County in North Carolina has been designated as a 'sanctuary jurisdiction' by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for not fully cooperating with federal immigration enforcement, following an executive order by President Trump. The county's sheriff has stated that his office will not assist ICE beyond what is required by law, and the DHS may suspend federal funding and pursue legal actions to enforce compliance.
The Buncombe County Health Department has issued a public health alert following a multi-school outbreak of whooping cough, with 45 confirmed cases since August 12. The highly contagious disease, primarily affecting school-age children, spreads through coughs and sneezes. Health officials urge those with symptoms to seek testing and treatment promptly.
The Water Resources Department has lifted the boil water advisory in Buncombe County, which was in place due to Tropical Storm Helene. After extensive testing, the water was confirmed free of E. coli and coliform. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' filtration system has ensured that the water is now treated and safe for consumption, with turbidity levels returning to normal.
A wildlife biologist reports an increase in canine distemper cases among raccoons in Buncombe County, North Carolina, but states it is not a high concern. The disease, which can affect various wildlife species, shows symptoms similar to a cold or flu in humans and can lead to neurological issues. While there are no human health risks, pets like dogs and ferrets can be infected, so vaccination and avoiding wildlife contact are advised. The NC Wildlife Resources Commission offers a hotline for reporting unusual animal behavior.
Buncombe County, NC, is experiencing a rise in whooping cough cases, with over 100 cases reported in Henderson County and 53 in Transylvania County since mid-April. Health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination, early diagnosis, and good health practices to control the spread, particularly as the disease is highly contagious and dangerous for infants.
Buncombe County in North Carolina has reported its first flu-related death of the 2023-2024 season. The county health officials received notification on December 11, 2023, but no further information about the deceased has been released to protect the family's privacy. The public health director emphasized the seriousness of the flu and urged the community to take preventive measures, including getting vaccinated, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home if feeling unwell. The CDC recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, with certain groups at higher risk for serious illness. Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms should contact their doctor for early treatment, and it is important to differentiate between flu and COVID-19 symptoms. The public is encouraged to get vaccinated and take additional precautions to protect themselves during the flu season.
Buncombe County in North Carolina has declared a state of emergency and expanded a burn ban due to extreme fire risk caused by severe drought conditions. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including fire pits and campfires, except for food preparation on outdoor grills. Several wildfires have already occurred in the region, with homes being evacuated and structures damaged. County officials are urging residents to develop safety plans and stay informed through the Code Red text messaging system. The ban on open burning has also been extended to multiple counties in the area. The state of emergency allows for coordinated emergency response efforts with various agencies and organizations.
An 18-year-old student at Erwin High School in Buncombe County, North Carolina, has been charged with having a gun on educational property. The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office described it as an isolated incident and stated that the student was taken into custody without incident. The school encouraged students to use the anonymous safety reporting tip line, and the student is currently being held on a $10,000 bond.
COVID-19 cases in Buncombe County, North Carolina, have reached their highest levels since December, according to the Metropolitan Sewer District. Hospitalizations remain low, but demand for COVID-19 tests is outpacing supply at local pharmacies. Free tests are available at designated locations in Asheville, and health officials are urging residents to stay up to date with vaccines, seek medical guidance if needed, and continue practicing basic prevention measures.
A contractor working on the I-26 widening project in Buncombe County, North Carolina, was killed in an accident outside of traffic. The incident occurred between the Long Shoals Road exit and Airport Road exit.
The Buncombe County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's assistance in an investigation after an unidentified body was discovered in a wooded area off McKinney Road.
A state trooper in North Carolina was injured and a suspect was killed in a shooting incident on I-26 westbound near mile marker 33. The trooper had stopped to assist a stranded motorist when the person pulled out a gun and fired, hitting the trooper in the chest. However, the trooper was protected by a ballistic vest and returned fire, killing the suspect. The injured trooper has been released from the hospital. The incident is now being investigated by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.
Law enforcement in Buncombe County is increasing patrols for St. Patrick's Day to ensure safety on the roads. Authorities are urging people to celebrate responsibly and avoid driving under the influence.