South Carolina is experiencing a growing measles outbreak, with state health officials reporting a recent and significant increase in cases. As of today,310 infections have been linked to the outbreak,a jump of 99 cases since earlier this week,raising concerns among public health officials about potential further spread and the state’s ability to maintain its measles-eliminated status. The outbreak underscores the importance of vaccination as a preventative measure against the highly contagious virus.
South Carolina health officials have reported a significant increase in measles cases, with 310 infections now linked to an ongoing outbreak in the state. This represents a surge of 99 cases since the beginning of this week, marking the largest increase in the outbreak in recent months.
Outbreak Concentrated in Upstate Region
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) stated that the growing outbreak remains largely centered in the Upstate region of South Carolina, specifically Spartanburg County. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems, making outbreak control a critical public health priority.
“This is the most substantial increase we’ve seen since the outbreak began in October,” a spokesperson for the state’s Department of Health told Reuters.
Of those infected, 256 were unvaccinated, two had received only one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, two were fully vaccinated, and 50 had unknown vaccination status. The recommended MMR vaccine schedule involves two doses for optimal protection.
The majority of cases have been reported among children aged five to seventeen, followed by those under five years old.
Currently, 200 individuals are under quarantine and nine are in isolation, with the latest quarantine end date set for January 29, according to the state’s health department. State epidemiologist Linda Bell emphasized that the number of people in quarantine doesn’t reflect the total number of infections.
“An increasing number of public exposure sites are being identified, and it’s likely there are hundreds of other individuals at risk who may not realize they need to be quarantined if they are not protected against measles,” Bell explained.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 2,144 measles cases across the United States in 2023.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is expected to make a decision this year regarding whether the United States will retain its status as a measles-eliminated country.
To be considered measles-free, a country must demonstrate sustained interruption of indigenous virus transmission for at least 12 months and maintain high-quality surveillance systems. Maintaining measles elimination requires ongoing vigilance and robust vaccination efforts.
