Home / Health / South Carolina Battles Record Measles Outbreak Amidst National Trend
South Carolina Battles Record Measles Outbreak Amidst National Trend
28 Jan
Summary
- South Carolina reports 789 total measles cases, its largest outbreak in over 30 years.
- National measles cases exceed 416, with most affected under 19 years old.
- Declining vaccination rates are driving the alarming increase in measles cases.
South Carolina is currently experiencing its most significant measles outbreak in over 30 years, with the total number of cases reaching 789. This surge includes 89 new cases reported recently, leading to 557 individuals being placed in quarantine.
Nationally, the situation is also concerning, with over 416 confirmed measles cases reported across the United States this year. Data indicates that the majority of these cases involve individuals under 19 years of age, with a small percentage requiring hospitalization.
Experts express alarm over the escalating number of measles cases, linking the trend directly to a concerning decline in vaccination rates nationwide. The recommended two-dose MMR vaccine regimen, which offers 97% effectiveness, has seen lower uptake, with kindergarten vaccination rates dropping from 95.2% in the 2019-2020 school year to 92.5% for the 2024-2025 school year.
