by Columbia, SC – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has reported 26 new measles cases in just a few days, pushing the state’s latest outbreak to 211 confirmed infections and prompting renewed warnings about quarantine, vaccination, and public exposure risks.
Health officials say the outbreak, which began in early October, continues to spread primarily among unvaccinated children and adolescents across the Upstate region.
Overview of the Current Outbreak
DPH first identified the measles outbreak on October 2, with cases initially concentrated in the Upstate region of South Carolina. Since then, the number of infections has steadily increased, with the most recent spike reported since Friday, officials said.
As of Tuesday, 144 people are currently in quarantine, while seven individuals remain in isolation, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
Breakdown of Reported Cases
State health data show the outbreak is overwhelmingly affecting children:
- 45 cases involve children under age 5
- 143 cases involve children ages 5 to 17
- 17 cases involve adults
- Six cases involve minors whose exact ages were not disclosed
Public health officials noted that the high number of pediatric cases raises concerns about school and community-based transmission.
Vaccination Status Raises Concern
DPH officials emphasized that the vast majority of infected individuals were not vaccinated against measles.
Of the 211 confirmed cases:
- 196 individuals were unvaccinated
- Four were partially vaccinated
- One was fully vaccinated
- 10 cases remain under investigation or have unknown vaccination status
Health officials reiterated that measles vaccination remains the most effective protection against the highly contagious virus, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
Where New Exposures Occurred
DPH said 19 of the newly reported cases were linked to known household exposures and previously identified school-related exposures. Another four cases were associated with exposures at church services, highlighting the role of large indoor gatherings in spreading the virus.
Public exposures were confirmed at Sugar Ridge Elementary School and Boiling Springs Elementary School, prompting DPH to begin notifying potentially exposed students, faculty, and staff on December 31.
Officials said there are currently nine students in quarantine connected to exposures at the two schools.
Churches Linked to Exposure Events
In addition to school-related exposures, DPH identified measles exposure events at several churches in the region, including:
- Tabernacle of Salvation Church
- Unitarian Universalist Church of Spartanburg
- Slavic Pentecostal Church of Spartanburg
- Ark of Salvation Church
Health officials urged anyone who attended services at these locations during the exposure windows to monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare provider if concerns arise.
Ongoing Investigations Into Case Sources
While many cases have been linked to known exposure sites, DPH said the source of one case remains unknown, and two additional cases are still under active investigation.
Officials noted that unidentified transmission chains can make outbreaks more difficult to control, especially when infected individuals are unaware they are contagious.
Hospitalizations and Medical Complications
Although complications from measles are not reportable by law, DPH confirmed that four people — including both adults and children — required hospitalization due to complications related to the virus.
Additional infected individuals sought medical care but did not require hospitalization, officials said.
Measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, dehydration, and inflammation of the brain, particularly in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
Why Measles Spreads So Easily
According to DPH, individuals infected with measles are contagious from four days before a rash appears, meaning they can spread the virus before realizing they are sick.
Officials warned that this early contagious period significantly increases the risk of exposure in schools, churches, and households.
Those with measles may unknowingly spread the virus before symptoms become obvious, DPH cautioned.
Public Health Guidance and Prevention
DPH is urging anyone who is sick, experiencing mild symptoms, or currently in quarantine to remain at home to prevent further spread.
Health officials also continue to stress the importance of vaccination, particularly for children attending school or daycare and adults who may not know their immunization status.
Conclusion
With 211 confirmed cases, the South Carolina measles outbreak shows no signs of slowing, especially among unvaccinated populations. Health officials say continued cooperation with quarantine guidance, prompt symptom reporting, and vaccination remain critical to stopping further transmission across the Upstate region.
Public health officials say community awareness is key to limiting further spread of measles. Share your experiences in the comments below and let others know how outbreaks like this affect schools, families, and local communities.
