South Carolina Declares End to Largest Measles Outbreak Since 1991
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South Carolina public health officials have declared an end to the state's major measles outbreak after 42 days without a new case. The outbreak, which infected 997 people and hospitalized at least 21, was largely contained to the northwest region. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports more than 20 other new measles outbreaks are active across the U.S. this year.
Facts First
- South Carolina's major measles outbreak is officially over after 42 days without a new case.
- The outbreak infected 997 people and hospitalized at least 21, with the majority of cases among unvaccinated children.
- The outbreak was largely contained to the state's northwest region, centered in Spartanburg County.
- The CDC reports more than 20 other new measles outbreaks across the U.S. this year, with large outbreaks in Texas, Florida, and Utah.
- Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications including pneumonia, brain swelling, and immune system damage.
What Happened
South Carolina public health officials declared an end to the state's measles outbreak on Monday. The declaration followed 42 days without any new cases reported. The outbreak resulted in 997 infections, the majority of which were unvaccinated children, and at least 21 people were hospitalized. The outbreak was largely contained to the northwest region of the state, centered in Spartanburg County.
Why this Matters to You
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases known. For families, this means ensuring children are vaccinated is a critical step for protection. The virus can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and brain swelling, and may lead to hospitalization. Dr. Brannon Traxler of the South Carolina Department of Public Health stated that while many cases were mild, some were life-threatening or potentially long-lasting. Measles can also cause immune amnesia, leaving children vulnerable to other infections for years. If vaccination rates in your local schools fall below 95%, your community could be more vulnerable to similar outbreaks.
What's Next
Health officials will likely continue to emphasize vaccination, as the CDC reports more than 20 other new measles outbreaks are active across the U.S. this year. Large outbreaks in Texas, Florida, and Utah have each resulted in more than 100 confirmed cases. Nationwide, 92.5% of kindergartners received the measles vaccine in the 2024-2025 school year. The U.S. has reported 1,792 confirmed measles cases so far this year, following 2,288 cases last year—the highest number since the disease was declared eliminated in the country in 2000.