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Upstate measles outbreak confirmed, state health officials say

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 1:22 GMT by WYFF
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Upstate South Carolina Faces Measles Outbreak – State Health Officials Urge Vaccination and Vigilance

A cluster of measles cases has been confirmed in upstate South Carolina, prompting a swift response from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to a March 27 report on WYFF4, the state’s first measles case in almost a decade was identified in the Greenville‑Macon region, with two additional cases confirmed in the surrounding counties. All three cases are linked to a single exposure event, and none of the patients had received the recommended two doses of the measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR) vaccine.

How the Outbreak Began

Health officials say the outbreak is believed to have originated from a traveler returning from a country where measles remains endemic. The index case—an unvaccinated child—attended a community gathering in a high‑density indoor setting. The child’s close contacts, who were also unvaccinated, became infected. Subsequent spread was contained largely because the secondary cases were quickly identified and isolated.

“We’re dealing with a classic scenario where measles spreads rapidly in a susceptible population,” said Dr. Angela McKee, an infectious disease specialist with DHEC. “When people skip the MMR shots, they not only put themselves at risk but also those around them.”

The CDC’s “Measles, Mumps, and Rubella” page explains that measles is the most contagious human disease known, with an R₀ of 12–18. Even a single infected person can spark an outbreak in an unvaccinated community.

Numbers and Demographics

All three patients were children between four and fourteen years old. No complications—such as pneumonia or encephalitis—have been reported to date, and all patients have recovered after appropriate medical care.

Public Health Response

DHEC has activated a multi‑agency task force that includes local health departments, the South Carolina State Department of Education, and the Greenville‑Macon regional health authority. The team is conducting contact tracing, offering MMR vaccine boosters to anyone who might have been exposed, and monitoring schools and childcare centers for potential clusters.

“We’ve already reached out to 500+ households in the affected area to inform them of the outbreak and advise them on vaccination,” said Dr. McKee. “We’re also issuing a temporary vaccination clinic at the county health department to ensure rapid access.”

The state is also collaborating with the CDC’s Measles and Rubella Surveillance Program to track case progression and potential interstate spread. The CDC’s “Measles, Mumps, and Rubella – Current Statistics” dashboard, accessed via a link on the WYFF4 article, shows a steady decline in U.S. measles cases over the last decade, but notes that the disease is still present in the community when vaccination rates fall below the 95% herd immunity threshold.

Why Vaccination Matters

The measles vaccine is a combined MMR shot that protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. Children typically receive the first dose at 12–15 months and a second dose at 4–6 years. According to the CDC’s “Measles Vaccine” page, the vaccine is 97% effective after two doses and has an excellent safety record.

“Missed doses mean that an entire group of people becomes vulnerable, creating a perfect storm for outbreaks,” warned Dr. McKee. “We’re seeing measles re‑appear in communities with low vaccination coverage. The safest route to prevention is timely immunization.”

The DHEC website, linked in the article, also lists a downloadable “MMR Vaccination Schedule” guide for parents, as well as an online portal where families can verify their child’s immunization status.

What Residents Can Do

1. Verify Immunization Status – Parents should check the state’s immunization registry or ask their pediatrician to confirm whether their children have received both MMR doses.
2. Get Vaccinated – If a child is missing doses, schedule a booster at a local clinic or pharmacy. The state offers free vaccination for children 12–15 months and adults who meet certain eligibility criteria.
3. Seek Medical Attention – Anyone showing symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash should see a healthcare provider immediately and avoid contact with others until cleared.
4. Stay Informed – Follow updates from DHEC and the CDC, and watch local news outlets like WYFF4 for real‑time guidance.

Looking Ahead

While the current outbreak is limited to three confirmed cases, health officials stress that measles can spread quickly if unvaccinated individuals remain in the community. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage, especially as international travel resumes and global measles cases rise.

The DHEC has set up a dedicated hotline for questions and will be conducting periodic community briefings to keep the public informed. Residents are encouraged to monitor official announcements and to keep their children up to date on immunizations.

In Summary – South Carolina’s upstate measles outbreak, though small, is a stark reminder that measles is still a real threat when vaccination gaps exist. By staying vigilant, verifying immunization records, and completing the MMR schedule, residents can protect themselves and their communities from this highly contagious disease.