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Measles Outbreak Spreads Across South Carolina

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. sles-outbreak-spreads-across-south-carolina.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 15:45 GMT by WYFF
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

GREENVILLE, S.C. (WYFF4) - February 6, 2026 - The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) is continuing to grapple with a widening measles outbreak, now impacting multiple counties and prompting concerns about community spread. Originally linked to international travel in early January, the outbreak has demonstrated a concerning capacity to circulate within the state, exceeding initial projections and necessitating a broadened public health response.

As of today, confirmed cases have been reported in Charleston, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lee, and Georgetown counties, with DHEC officials acknowledging the possibility of undiagnosed cases in other regions. The increasing geographical spread has prompted a renewed push for vaccination and heightened awareness of measles symptoms.

Detailed Exposure Locations and Timeline

DHEC has identified several key locations where individuals may have been exposed to the virus. The initial exposures occurred primarily within transportation hubs and healthcare settings, indicating a rapid transmission potential. The known exposure locations include:

• Charleston International Airport (CHS) - January 21-27, 2026: A significant number of travelers passing through the airport during this period may have been exposed, posing a risk of further spread to other states.
• Kershaw County Medical Clinic - January 24, 2026: Exposure within a medical facility raises concerns about potential infection of vulnerable patients and healthcare workers.
• Lancaster General Hospital - January 26 - February 1, 2026: This extended exposure window in a hospital setting is particularly worrying, requiring targeted testing and potential prophylactic measures for staff and patients.
• Georgetown County - Multiple dates in January and February 2026: DHEC is actively investigating the specific locations within Georgetown County to pinpoint the source of transmission and additional potential exposures.
• Lee County - Multiple dates in January and February 2026: Similar to Georgetown County, detailed contact tracing is underway to map the spread within Lee County.
• Fairfield County - Multiple dates in January and February 2026: DHEC emphasizes that the listed dates are approximate and may not be exhaustive, urging anyone experiencing symptoms who visited these counties during January and February to seek medical guidance.

Understanding the Risk: Symptoms and Recommended Actions

Measles is a highly contagious airborne virus, spread through respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, persistent cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes). A characteristic red, blotchy rash usually appears on the face and then spreads downwards to the rest of the body. The incubation period - the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms - can be between 7 and 21 days, making it difficult to trace exposures.

Individuals who suspect they may have been exposed and are experiencing symptoms are strongly advised by DHEC to:

• Isolate Immediately: Stay home and avoid contact with others to prevent further transmission.
• Contact a Healthcare Provider: Call your doctor to discuss your symptoms and arrange for testing. Crucially, DHEC urges individuals not to simply walk into emergency rooms or urgent care centers, as this could expose others.
• Follow Medical Guidance: Adhere to any instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding testing, quarantine, or treatment.

Vaccination: The Primary Defense

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent measles infection. DHEC recommends the following vaccination schedule:

• Children: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended, typically administered at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age.
• Adults: Adults born in 1957 or later who have not had measles or been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine should receive at least one dose.

"Vaccination is the cornerstone of our defense against measles," stated Dr. Emily Carter, State Epidemiologist at DHEC. "Even one dose of the MMR vaccine provides significant protection, but two doses are needed for optimal immunity. We are working diligently to increase vaccination rates across the state, particularly in communities where coverage is lower."

DHEC is actively collaborating with local healthcare providers and community organizations to offer vaccination clinics and educational resources. The department has also launched a public awareness campaign emphasizing the importance of vaccination and providing information about the outbreak.

For the latest updates and information about measles, vaccination locations, and DHEC recommendations, please visit the DHEC website at [ https://www.scdhec.gov/ ]. The situation is evolving rapidly, and staying informed is crucial to protecting yourself and your community.