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Measles Cases Surge in Upstate South Carolina

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/02 .. asles-cases-surge-in-upstate-south-carolina.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 15:12 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Greenville, S.C. - February 13th, 2026 - Public health officials in South Carolina are closely monitoring a growing cluster of measles cases in the Upstate region, with 17 new infections confirmed today, February 13th, 2026. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has identified the cases as potentially linked, primarily impacting individuals lacking adequate vaccination coverage. This development has triggered concerns about a possible measles outbreak, prompting a public health response focused on vaccination and exposure tracing.

Dr. Edward Simmer, DHEC's State Health Officer, addressed the situation this morning, stating, "We are seeing a concerning trend with measles cases, and we want to ensure the public is aware of the risks and how to protect themselves." This statement underscores the agency's growing anxiety as the number of confirmed cases continues to rise. While measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, sporadic outbreaks continue to occur, often fueled by declining vaccination rates and international travel.

DHEC is actively working to pinpoint all potential exposure locations associated with the current cases. While a detailed list of these locations is currently being compiled and will be released shortly, preliminary investigations suggest exposure may have occurred in several public settings, including schools, childcare facilities, healthcare waiting rooms, and potentially at recent public events. Residents of Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, and surrounding Upstate counties are urged to stay informed about specific locations released by DHEC and to monitor themselves for symptoms.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It's so contagious that if one person has measles, 90% of those who are not immune and are exposed will become infected. This high transmissibility is what makes outbreaks particularly concerning, particularly in communities with lower vaccination rates. The virus remains airborne for extended periods and can linger on surfaces, increasing the risk of transmission.

Symptoms of measles typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (pink eye). A characteristic rash then appears, usually starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. This rash consists of small, red, flat spots that may merge together. The illness can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Hospitalization rates for measles cases are significant, placing a strain on healthcare resources.

DHEC strongly recommends that all individuals aged 6 months and older receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The MMR vaccine is highly effective, providing two doses offering approximately 97% protection against measles. Individuals unsure of their vaccination status are encouraged to check their records or contact their healthcare provider. Booster shots may be necessary for certain populations, such as healthcare workers and travelers to regions where measles is prevalent.

The current situation highlights a broader trend of declining vaccination rates globally and in certain pockets of the United States. This decline is often attributed to vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and distrust in scientific consensus. Public health officials are actively working to combat misinformation and promote the safety and effectiveness of vaccines through education and outreach programs. Several organizations, including the CDC and WHO, have extensive resources available online detailing the benefits of vaccination and addressing common concerns.

Beyond vaccination, DHEC advises individuals to practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes. Those experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should immediately contact their healthcare provider before visiting any medical facility, to prevent potential spread within healthcare settings. The agency is also emphasizing the importance of early detection and isolation of cases to contain the outbreak. This developing story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available from DHEC and other sources. Residents are urged to visit the DHEC website ([ https://www.scdhec.gov/ ]) for the latest updates, exposure location details, and vaccination resources.