ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Mission Health has implemented temporary visitor restrictions across its Western North Carolina hospitals as influenza activity continues to rise statewide and locally.
Beginning Tuesday, all Mission Health hospitals and affiliates are limiting visitation to two visitors per patient. Only visitors ages 13 and older are permitted. The restrictions are intended to protect vulnerable patients during a surge in flu cases. Exceptions may be considered in limited circumstances, including end-of-life care and pediatric patients.
The policy applies to Mission Hospital in Asheville, CarePartners in Asheville, Mission Hospital McDowell in Marion, Transylvania Regional Hospital in Brevard, Blue Ridge Regional Hospital in Spruce Pine, Angel Medical Center in Franklin and Highlands-Cashiers Hospital in Highlands.
North Carolina is experiencing a significant increase in influenza-like illness, according to the state Division of Public Health. Statewide flu activity has exceeded 6 percent, with evidence of increased local transmission. Mission Health officials said the restrictions will remain in place until reported flu activity declines.
Hospital officials urged community members who are sick to stay home and practice good respiratory hygiene, including covering coughs and sneezes and frequent handwashing. Those experiencing worsening symptoms are encouraged to seek medical care. Mission Health also offers a free Consult-A-Nurse line at 844-706-8773 to help people determine whether they should visit an emergency department, urgent care or a walk-in clinic.
Mission Health is also encouraging residents to receive the influenza vaccine if they have not already done so. Hand-sanitizing stations remain available at hospital entrances and throughout facilities.
On Monday, AdventHealth announced similar temporary visitor restrictions at its North Carolina hospitals because of increased cases of influenza, COVID-19 and RSV across the region.
Meanwhile, Buncombe County Public Health officials are monitoring increases in multiple communicable and vaccine-preventable diseases, including varicella (chickenpox), pertussis (whooping cough) and influenza, as well as a growing measles outbreak in neighboring South Carolina.
Varicella has been circulating widely in Buncombe County, including a large outbreak identified in mid-November at a private school in western Buncombe County. Public health officials temporarily excluded students without proof of immunity to prevent further spread. As of Dec. 10, all affected students and staff have returned, though families have been advised to continue monitoring for symptoms.
Pertussis activity is also increasing. North Carolina reported its highest number of pertussis cases in 70 years in 2024, and 2025 case totals have already surpassed last year’s numbers. In Buncombe County, a concentrated outbreak has been identified at a public high school in the Swannanoa/Black Mountain area, with 17 linked cases and potential spread to a nearby middle school. An outbreak of influenza A has also been reported within the same population.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has reported increasing flu activity statewide, along with flu-associated deaths. As of Dec. 17, 10 adult flu-related deaths and one pediatric flu-related death had been reported in North Carolina this season. During the 2024–2025 flu season, Buncombe County recorded 19 flu-related deaths, including one pediatric death.
Public health officials are also monitoring a measles outbreak in Upstate South Carolina, where 138 cases have been reported. North Carolina health officials recently confirmed a measles case involving a person who traveled through Raleigh-Durham International Airport while infectious, raising concerns about potential spread in communities with lower vaccination rates.
Buncombe County Public Health officials said they are coordinating with schools, healthcare providers, hospitals and pharmacies to limit the spread of illness and prepare for the possible introduction of measles into the county. Efforts include community notifications, disease-control measures, vaccination outreach and expanded public education.
Residents are urged to ensure they are up to date on recommended vaccinations, including measles, pertussis, varicella and influenza. More information is available through Buncombe County Public Health.