Measles Outbreak in South Carolina: Health Officials Warn of Unrecognized Spread and Rising Cases
MYRTLE BEACH, SOUTH CAROLINA — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a growing measles outbreak in the Upstate region, with new cases emerging within days and signs of unrecognized community spread now raising statewide concern.
Eight Confirmed Cases and Counting
As of October 1, state health officials reported eight confirmed measles cases, including five new infections identified in just over a week.
The sources of two of those cases remain unknown, leading DPH epidemiologists to conclude that the virus is circulating undetected in parts of the state.
“We anticipate more cases will soon be identified,” said Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina’s state epidemiologist. “The presence of cases without known exposure means there is unrecognized spread of the disease.”
Outbreak Linked to School Exposure
The DPH confirmed that it is currently investigating known cases connected to a school in the Upstate region, though officials emphasized that the outbreak is not contained to one specific community.
Dr. Bell warned that because measles is among the most contagious viruses on Earth, even limited exposure can lead to new cases among the unvaccinated or immunocompromised.
Symptoms and Risks
Emergency physician Dr. Stephanie Radu with Grand Strand Medical Center told WMBF News that while she has not yet seen local cases along the Grand Strand, the public should remain alert for classic measles symptoms:
- High fever
- Cough and runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Red rash appearing several days after initial symptoms
“Children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised people are the most susceptible to serious complications,” said Dr. Bell. “Pneumonia is a leading cause of death in young children infected with measles.”
Vaccination and Prevention
The DPH reiterated that vaccination remains the best defense against the disease. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is recommended for all children over one year old and adults who are not immune.
Health officials also urged those who suspect infection to quarantine immediately and call ahead before visiting healthcare facilities to prevent further exposure.
Dr. Radu added that even those vaccinated should remain cautious in areas with active outbreaks:
“If you feel safer wearing masks in public, that’s a great way to reduce spread,” Radu said. “Be aware of any reported outbreaks in your area.”
What Parents Should Know
While the MMR vaccine is not given to infants under one year old, doctors recommend parents limit exposure by avoiding crowded public areas and ensuring that close family members are vaccinated.
Measles on the Rise Nationwide
The outbreak comes amid a nationwide increase in measles cases — the highest levels seen in more than a decade — driven largely by unvaccinated populations and international travel-related cases.
As health officials race to contain the spread, South Carolina joins a growing list of states reporting new outbreaks in 2025.
Do you believe South Carolina schools and childcare centers should require proof of vaccination during outbreaks to prevent further spread? Share your opinion and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
