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Measles Outbreak in South Carolina Expands

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 16:45 GMT by WMBF News
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Measles Outbreak Expands in South Carolina: Public Health Officials Scramble to Contain Spread

GREENVILLE, S.C. - February 3rd, 2026 - The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) today confirmed a significant escalation in the ongoing measles outbreak, reporting 29 new cases, pushing the total to 67 since the initial detection in late November 2025. The outbreak, concentrated in Greenville, Spartanburg, and Cherokee counties, is prompting urgent calls for vaccination and heightened public health vigilance.

Dr. Emily Carter, State Epidemiologist, expressed concern over the continued spread, stating, "We are witnessing sustained transmission within these communities. Measles is an exceptionally contagious virus, and the increasing case count underscores the vulnerability of unvaccinated populations, particularly young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains the single most effective defense against infection and preventing further dissemination."

The DPH believes the current outbreak originated with cases imported through international travel. While investigations are still underway to determine the precise point of entry and transmission pathways, the focus remains on containment and preventing wider community spread. Health officials are meticulously tracing contacts, isolating confirmed cases, and working in close collaboration with local health departments and healthcare providers.

Beyond the Numbers: Understanding the Resurgence of Measles

The rise in measles cases isn't isolated to South Carolina; it reflects a concerning global trend. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of a resurgence in measles outbreaks worldwide, fueled by declining vaccination rates, conflict zones disrupting immunization programs, and misinformation surrounding vaccine safety. Before widespread vaccination, measles was nearly eradicated in many parts of the world. However, even a slight dip in vaccination coverage can create pockets of susceptibility, allowing the virus to regain a foothold.

Measles is particularly dangerous due to its high contagiousness. The virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves a room. One infected person can potentially spread the disease to 90% of those who are not immune. This is significantly higher than the contagiousness of diseases like the flu or the common cold.

Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes). The characteristic measles rash appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading downwards to the rest of the body. While most people recover, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. Hospitalization rates for measles are high, placing a strain on healthcare resources.

SC DPH Response and Vaccination Efforts

The South Carolina DPH is proactively implementing multiple strategies to combat the outbreak. In addition to contact tracing and isolation, the department is spearheading a public awareness campaign to emphasize the importance of vaccination. Free measles vaccinations are currently available at designated locations throughout Upstate South Carolina. A comprehensive list of locations, dates, and times is available on the DPH website: [ https://www.scdhec.gov/ ].

The DPH is also working with school districts and childcare facilities to ensure high vaccination rates among students and staff. They are encouraging parents to review their children's immunization records and schedule vaccinations if they are not up-to-date. Efforts are also being made to reach vulnerable populations, including those with limited access to healthcare.

What You Can Do

Individuals are urged to take the following steps:

• Check your vaccination status: Ensure you and your family members are fully vaccinated against measles. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
• Monitor for symptoms: Be vigilant for fever, cough, runny nose, and rash. If you suspect you or a loved one may have measles, contact your healthcare provider immediately before visiting a doctor's office or emergency room, to prevent potential spread.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Stay informed: Monitor updates from the SC DPH and reliable news sources.

This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of vaccination in protecting individual and community health. The DPH is committed to containing the spread of measles and safeguarding the well-being of all South Carolinians. WMBF News will continue to provide ongoing coverage of this developing situation, delivering timely updates and information as they become available.