Measles Outbreak Confirmed in Upstate South Carolina, Eight Cases Reported

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA — State health officials have confirmed a measles outbreak in the Upstate, with eight cases reported so far, sparking renewed warnings about vaccination and disease prevention.

Outbreak Defined by New Cases

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) said five of the cases were identified within the past month, meeting the definition of an outbreak — three or more cases that are epidemiologically linked.

Officials confirmed that all individuals involved were unvaccinated and lacked immunity from previous infection. Those affected are now under isolation to help prevent further spread.

Health Officials Warn of Rapid Spread

“Measles is highly contagious, and there is risk for continued, rapid spread of the disease in the Upstate among communities with low immunization rates,” said Linda Bell, South Carolina’s state epidemiologist.

Bell added that the unknown source of two of the cases indicates unrecognized community spread, raising the likelihood of additional infections.

How Measles Spreads

The measles virus can spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Alarmingly, the virus can remain active in the air of a confined space for up to two hours after the infected person has left.

Those with measles are contagious from four days before the rash begins through four days after its onset.

Guidance for Residents

Health officials advise anyone experiencing symptoms — including fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash — to stay home and call their healthcare provider before visiting in person, to avoid exposing others.

People without immunity who were exposed to a measles case are urged to quarantine as directed, since even mild early symptoms can spread the virus.

Measles Nationwide

The outbreak in South Carolina is part of a larger national trend. As of September 30, the CDC reported 1,544 confirmed measles cases across 41 states, with 86% of those cases linked to outbreaks.

Health experts continue to stress the importance of vaccination, which remains the most effective protection against the disease.

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