As of , South Carolina is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with a total of 979 confirmed cases reported. While the rate of new infections appears to be slowing, the situation remains a public health concern, prompting state officials to seek additional assistance.
The latest data, released today, indicates only six new cases were identified since . This marks the first time since that fewer than ten new cases have been reported in a single update, suggesting a potential deceleration in the outbreak’s growth. However, officials caution that the outbreak could persist for weeks or months, particularly given ongoing challenges with vaccine uptake.
The epicenter of the outbreak remains Spartanburg County, accounting for 927 of the 979 total cases. The outbreak initially began in the county in , and has been linked to several elementary schools with lower-than-recommended vaccination rates. This underscores the critical role of vaccination in preventing the spread of this highly contagious disease.
A detailed breakdown of vaccination status among those infected reveals a stark pattern. Of the 979 cases, 913 individuals were unvaccinated. Nineteen were partially vaccinated – having received only one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine – while 26 were fully vaccinated. The vaccination status of 21 individuals remains unknown.
Currently, 91 people are in quarantine due to potential exposure to the virus, and one individual is in isolation to prevent further transmission. While the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) does not directly report complications from measles, they are in regular communication with hospitals and have learned of 21 hospitalizations related to measles complications, including both adults and children, since the outbreak began.
Recognizing the scale of the outbreak – the largest in the United States in over 30 years – South Carolina has requested support from the CDC Foundation. Twelve infectious disease specialists from the foundation have arrived in the state to assist with outbreak control efforts. The CDC Foundation, established by Congress, provides support to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through charitable contributions and grants, often stepping in during large-scale public health emergencies.
Nationally, as of , the CDC reports a total of 982 confirmed measles cases across the United States for 2026. The majority of cases reported in South Carolina, and nationally, are occurring in children aged 5 to 17, followed by those under five years of age. This highlights the vulnerability of these age groups and the importance of ensuring they are appropriately vaccinated.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can spread quickly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash that spreads over the body. Complications from measles can be severe, including pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death.
Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against measles. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing two doses offering approximately 97% protection. The CDC recommends that children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.
Health officials continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination to control the outbreak and protect the community. Individuals who are unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider or local health department.
