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Measles Outbreak Spreads in South Carolina

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 19:11 GMT by The Greenville News
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Greenville, S.C. - February 15, 2026 - The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is closely monitoring a developing measles outbreak, with 17 new cases reported in recent weeks. While the precise total number of cases remains undisclosed, the uptick has prompted a renewed call for vaccination from public health officials, highlighting the continued threat posed by this highly contagious disease.

The recent surge is disproportionately impacting unvaccinated individuals, a pattern mirroring outbreaks observed across the nation and globally. Dr. Emily Carter, DHEC's state health officer, emphasized the critical role of vaccination in preventing infection. "Measles is extremely contagious, and unvaccinated individuals are at a high risk of infection," she stated. "Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and protect our communities."

A Resurgence of a 'Defeated' Disease?

Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, a monumental achievement built on widespread vaccination efforts. However, in recent years, we've witnessed a disheartening resurgence, driven largely by declining vaccination rates. This isn't simply a South Carolina issue; the World Health Organization (WHO) has also voiced growing concerns about rising measles cases worldwide, attributing the increase to vaccine hesitancy and disruptions to immunization programs, particularly in the wake of the global pandemic. The decline in 'herd immunity' - where a sufficiently high percentage of the population is vaccinated to protect those who cannot be - is leaving communities vulnerable.

Understanding Measles: Symptoms and Severity

Measles is an airborne virus, meaning it spreads easily through coughing and sneezing. The incubation period is typically 10-14 days, making early detection challenging. Symptoms begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes), often referred to as the "three C's". Crucially, a characteristic rash emerges a few days later, starting on the face and spreading throughout the body. This rash is comprised of small, red spots that can coalesce, forming larger patches.

While often considered a childhood illness, measles can lead to severe complications, particularly in infants and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. In fact, according to the CDC, approximately one in five people who contract measles require hospitalization.

The MMR Vaccine: A Safe and Effective Shield

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a highly effective and safe way to prevent measles infection. It's typically administered in two doses: the first at 12-15 months of age and the second at 4-6 years. The MMR vaccine has undergone rigorous testing and has been proven safe and effective for decades. Concerns raised in the past about a link between the MMR vaccine and autism have been repeatedly debunked by extensive scientific research.

DHEC strongly urges all South Carolinians to review their vaccination records and ensure they and their families are up-to-date on their MMR vaccinations. Individuals unsure of their vaccination status should contact their healthcare provider or local health department.

Containing the Outbreak: DHEC's Response

DHEC is actively working to contain the spread of the outbreak through several measures. These include:

• Contact Tracing: Identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
• Isolation: Ensuring that infected individuals are isolated to prevent further transmission.
• Vaccination Clinics: Hosting vaccination clinics to make the MMR vaccine readily accessible to the public.
• Public Education: Disseminating information about measles symptoms, prevention, and the importance of vaccination.

Looking Ahead: Protecting South Carolina's Future

The current measles outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates. Public health officials emphasize that vaccination is not just a personal choice, but a community responsibility. By choosing to vaccinate, individuals protect themselves, their loved ones, and the most vulnerable members of society.

For more information about measles and vaccination, please visit the DHEC website ([ https://www.dhec.sc.gov/ ]) or contact your local health department. Don't wait for the outbreak to escalate - protect yourself and your community today.