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South Carolina Measles Outbreak Surpasses Texas

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. h-carolina-measles-outbreak-surpasses-texas.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 11:53 GMT by NBC 6 South Florida
      Locales: South Carolina, Texas, UNITED STATES

Columbia, SC - February 3rd, 2026 - A growing measles outbreak in South Carolina has surpassed that of Texas, reaching 14 confirmed cases as of today, according to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). This development is raising concerns among public health officials nationally, highlighting a resurgence of a disease once considered largely eradicated in the United States.

Texas currently reports 13 confirmed cases, marking a significant shift in the outbreak landscape. While both states are grappling with the highly contagious virus, South Carolina's escalating numbers are prompting increased vigilance and a renewed push for vaccination.

The South Carolina outbreak, which began several weeks ago, is disproportionately impacting unvaccinated individuals and infants too young to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This underscores the critical role vaccination plays in preventing the spread of the disease and protecting vulnerable populations.

Measles is notoriously contagious - far more so than COVID-19. An infected individual can spread the virus to up to 90% of those who are not immune. This high transmissibility means even a small pocket of unvaccinated individuals can quickly become a breeding ground for outbreaks, threatening community health.

Symptoms and Risks:

Symptoms typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes), often followed by the characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads downwards over the entire body. While many individuals experience mild symptoms, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems.

"Measles is extremely contagious and can easily spread through communities, especially where vaccination rates are low," stated Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist with DHEC. "The best way to protect yourself and others from measles is to get vaccinated. It's not just about individual protection; it's about protecting those who are most vulnerable and preventing a wider outbreak."

National Trends and Vaccination Rates:

The increase in measles cases in South Carolina and Texas is not isolated. Public health experts have been warning for years about the decline in MMR vaccination rates, creating a growing pool of susceptible individuals. This decline is linked to a number of factors, including vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation campaigns, accessibility issues, and disruptions to healthcare services - problems exacerbated by recent global events.

Data from the CDC indicates a steady decrease in MMR coverage among kindergarteners over the past decade. While overall vaccination rates remain above 90% nationally, several communities have significantly lower rates, creating localized pockets of vulnerability. 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.

DHEC's Response and Public Appeal:

DHEC is actively investigating the South Carolina outbreak, tracing contacts, and providing guidance to healthcare providers. They are also conducting outreach to educate the public about the importance of vaccination and address common concerns. Free vaccination clinics are being organized in affected areas, with a particular focus on reaching underserved communities.

"We are urging parents to review their children's vaccination records and schedule appointments if they are not up-to-date on their MMR vaccine," Dr. Bell added. "Adults should also check their immunity, particularly if they were born after 1957 and do not have documentation of vaccination or a confirmed case of measles."

Beyond Vaccination: Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure:

Experts emphasize that addressing the measles outbreak requires more than just vaccination efforts. Strengthening public health infrastructure, including improved disease surveillance systems, increased funding for vaccination programs, and robust communication strategies to counter misinformation, are crucial for preventing future outbreaks. Furthermore, bolstering international collaborations is vital, as imported cases from regions with lower vaccination rates contribute to the risk of domestic outbreaks.

For more information about measles, vaccination recommendations, and resources in South Carolina, please visit [ scdhec.gov/measles ]. The CDC also provides comprehensive information on measles at [ cdc.gov/measles ].