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South Carolina Measles Cases Surge to 67

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. 03/south-carolina-measles-cases-surge-to-67.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 13:47 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

GREENVILLE, S.C. - February 3rd, 2026 - The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DPH) today announced a significant increase in the number of confirmed measles cases, bringing the total to 67 since the outbreak began in December 2025. The surge in infections is concentrated in the Upstate region, prompting urgent calls for vaccination and heightened public health awareness.

Dr. Susan McDavid, DPH Medical Director, emphasized the continued transmission within the Upstate. "We're seeing continued transmission in the Upstate," she stated, "This highlights the importance of vaccination to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease." The increasing case count underscores the vulnerability of communities with lower vaccination rates and serves as a stark reminder of the potential for preventable diseases to resurge.

Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, is characterized by a distinctive rash, fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. While generally considered a childhood illness, measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and adults. These complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death.

The current outbreak is particularly concerning due to the ease with which measles spreads. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours in enclosed spaces, making even brief exposure a potential source of infection. Individuals who are unvaccinated or not adequately protected are at the highest risk of contracting the disease.

The MMR Vaccine: Your Best Defense

The most effective way to protect against measles is through vaccination with the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is a safe and highly effective vaccine that provides lifelong immunity in most cases. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose administered between 12 and 15 months of age and the second dose between 4 and 6 years of age.

However, vaccination isn't solely for children. Adults who have never been vaccinated or who are unsure of their vaccination status should also consult with their healthcare provider to receive the MMR vaccine. Healthcare workers, travelers, and individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly urged to ensure they are fully vaccinated.

Who is at Risk and What to Do

DPH officials are specifically urging unvaccinated individuals and those with compromised immune systems to prioritize vaccination. Beyond vaccination, those who may have been exposed to measles are advised to isolate themselves to prevent further spread of the virus. This means staying home and avoiding contact with others for a period of approximately 21 days from the date of last exposure, or until a healthcare provider confirms they are not infected.

Symptoms of measles typically appear 7-14 days after exposure. Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for minimizing transmission. If you or a family member experience these symptoms, it is vital to contact a healthcare provider immediately. Do not go to a doctor's office or emergency room without calling ahead, as this could expose others to the virus.

Historical Context and Rising Concerns

The current outbreak in South Carolina is part of a broader national and global trend of increasing measles cases. Following its elimination in the United States in 2000, measles has made a concerning comeback in recent years, largely attributed to declining vaccination rates and the importation of cases from other countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also expressed concern about a global resurgence of measles, citing vaccine hesitancy and gaps in immunization coverage as major contributing factors.

Vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and unfounded fears, remains a significant challenge to public health efforts. Public health officials continue to work to address these concerns by providing accurate information about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.

Resources and Information

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) is actively monitoring the outbreak and providing updates on its website: [ scdhec.gov ]. This website provides detailed information on measles, vaccination recommendations, and resources for finding vaccination locations. The CDC's website ([ https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html ]) also offers comprehensive information on measles and the MMR vaccine.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive steps to protect themselves and their communities from this preventable disease. The rising number of cases serves as a clear call to action: vaccination is the most effective defense against measles and the key to safeguarding public health.