Measles Cases Rise: Mask Mandates & Vaccination Urged

Prisma Health, one of the largest healthcare systems in South Carolina, has implemented a mandatory mask policy for all hospital visitors statewide, effective Thursday, February 5, 2026. This measure is a direct response to a significant measles outbreak in the state, which is currently the largest in the nation.

Rising Measles Cases Prompt Action

As of Tuesday, February 3, 2026, South Carolina has reported 876 cases of measles, with the vast majority – 841 – concentrated in Spartanburg County. A recent case has also been confirmed in Sumter County. The outbreak began in October, and the number of cases continues to climb, nearing 1,000.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the U.S. Had eliminated measles in 2000, following a highly effective vaccination program. However, cases still occur, and South Carolina is now experiencing a resurgence. According to the Harvard Health Publishing, there have been 2,671 confirmed cases in 44 states since January of 2025.

Prisma Health’s New Masking Protocol

Under the new policy, all visitors will be required to wear a mask upon entering Prisma Health hospitals. Masks will be required until individuals have completed a health screening. Parents will be asked to mask children ages 2 and older. The policy extends to specific units requiring heightened protection, including labor and delivery units, OB triage, and other birthing-related areas, where masking will be required until evaluation.

Any patient or care partner presenting with fever, rash, or respiratory symptoms will also be asked to continue wearing a mask. Here’s intended to minimize transmission, particularly for vulnerable patients.

Why Measles is a Concern

Measles is a highly contagious disease, especially among individuals who are not vaccinated. Initial symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and dry eyes. However, the illness can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, or swelling of the brain.

Dr. Johnathon Elkes, an emergency medicine physician at Prisma Health, emphasized the potential severity of measles, stating, “Measles is more than just spots. It can have long-term impacts for both children and adults.” He further highlighted the risk to critically ill patients and those with conditions that prevent vaccination, such as cancer patients.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Prisma Health is particularly focused on protecting pregnant patients, who face higher risks from measles. Dr. Kendreia Dickens-Carr, an OB-GYN, stressed the importance of prevention and knowing one’s immunity status, stating, “Taking steps to avoid exposure helps protect both mother and baby.”

While no confirmed cases of measles have been reported in Richland or Lexington counties as of February 3, 2026, the outbreak is spreading beyond Spartanburg County. Health officials are monitoring the situation closely.

Vaccination Remains Key

The CDC recommends vaccination as the most effective way to prevent measles. While the U.S. Saw a decline in vaccination rates between 2019 and 2023, falling from 95% to 92% nationally, vaccination remains a critical public health measure. According to Harvard Health, only 4% of recent cases in the US involved people known to be fully vaccinated.

Dr. Robin LaCroix, a pediatric infectious disease expert with Prisma Health, acknowledged the evolving nature of the situation, stating, “This is an ongoing, evolving situation,” but emphasized that the risk for further spread remains high. The measures implemented by Prisma Health are designed to reduce this risk and ensure a safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff.