What is the current measles situation in South Carolina?

South Carolina is experiencing an accelerating measles outbreak, with 111 cases reported in the Upstate region and over 250 people quarantined.

Why are measles cases increasing in the US?

Measles cases are increasing due to declining vaccination rates, with national kindergarten vaccination levels below the threshold for herd immunity.

How contagious is the measles virus?

Measles is the world's most infectious disease, with unvaccinated individuals having a 90% chance of infection upon exposure.

Home / Health / SC Measles Cases Spike: 200 Quarantined

SC Measles Cases Spike: 200 Quarantined

11 Dec

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Summary

Measles outbreak in South Carolina's Upstate region reaches 111 cases.
Over 250 potentially exposed individuals are now under quarantine.
Nationwide kindergarten vaccination rates fall below herd immunity threshold.

Measles cases are rapidly increasing in South Carolina's Upstate region, prompting the quarantine of over 250 individuals. The outbreak has reached 111 confirmed cases, with a significant majority of those infected being unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.

State health officials describe the situation as 'accelerating,' particularly after recent holiday travel. This surge highlights concerns over declining vaccination rates, as only 91% of kindergarteners in South Carolina are vaccinated against measles. The US as a whole faces similar challenges, with national kindergarten vaccination rates at 92.5%, falling short of the 95% required for herd immunity.

Meadow is a highly contagious disease, posing a severe public health risk. Experts warn that the virus can spread rapidly, especially among unvaccinated populations. The current outbreak is the largest in the US since 1992, underscoring the ongoing threat of preventable diseases when immunization levels drop.