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South Carolina Measles Outbreak: 44 New Cases Reported

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2026/02 .. lina-measles-outbreak-44-new-cases-reported.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 16:22 GMT by WMBF News
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

GREENVILLE, S.C. - A rapidly escalating measles outbreak in South Carolina's upstate region has prompted health officials to confirm 44 new cases, bringing the total to 78. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) announced the alarming update today, Friday, February 6th, 2026, and has officially declared a public health emergency in Greenville County. The surge in cases is raising concerns about community immunity and prompting urgent calls for vaccination.

Dr. Edward Simmer, DHEC Director of Public Health, addressed the escalating situation in a press conference this afternoon. "We are seeing a significant and worrying increase in measles cases, particularly amongst school-aged children and individuals who remain unvaccinated. Measles is not a benign illness; it's highly contagious and can lead to severe complications, hospitalization, and even death, especially in vulnerable populations like infants and those with compromised immune systems. Vaccination is the most effective defense, and we are urging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated immediately."

Expanding Exposure Sites & Contact Tracing

The outbreak's reach is expanding, with health officials now investigating a total of seven potential exposure sites. In addition to the previously identified locations - the Children's Hospital of Greenville Medical Center (February 1-5), Greer Elementary School (February 2-5), Simpsonville Library (February 3), and TD Community Credit Union (Simpsonville Branch) (February 4) - DHEC has added three new locations to the list:

• Greenville Memorial Hospital Emergency Room: February 5-6
• Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church (Sunday School): February 1
• Swamp Rabbit Trailhead (near Travelers Rest): February 3

DHEC's robust contact tracing efforts are underway, but the sheer number of cases is stretching resources. Officials are utilizing digital exposure notification systems, alongside traditional methods, to alert potentially exposed individuals. The agency is partnering with local schools and community organizations to host vaccination clinics and provide educational resources.

The Decline in MMR Vaccination Rates: A Contributing Factor?

Public health experts believe the current outbreak is directly linked to declining MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination rates in recent years. Data shows that MMR vaccination coverage in Greenville County has fallen below the 95% threshold required for herd immunity, creating pockets of susceptibility within the population. This decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation circulating online, access barriers to healthcare, and disruptions to routine immunization schedules during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We've seen a concerning trend of vaccine misinformation gaining traction, leading some parents to delay or forgo vaccination for their children," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, an epidemiologist at Greenville Health System. "This isn't just about individual choice; it's a public health issue. When vaccination rates drop, we lose the protection of herd immunity, and outbreaks like this become increasingly likely."

Symptoms and What to Do If You're Concerned

Measles symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure and begin with a high fever, persistent cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis (red, watery eyes). A characteristic rash, often starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body, usually follows within a few days. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is urged to immediately contact their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital, to prevent further spread.

DHEC continues to recommend that all individuals 12 months and older receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. Infants under 12 months are still vulnerable, and DHEC advises parents to ensure their children are vaccinated as soon as they reach the age of 12 months. Booster doses may be recommended for individuals with weakened immune systems or those planning international travel.

Resources and Information

For the most up-to-date information about the measles outbreak, vaccination guidelines, and potential exposure sites, please visit the DHEC website: [ https://www.scdhec.gov/measles ]. The CDC website ([ https://www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html ]) also offers comprehensive resources on measles prevention and treatment.

Health officials are emphasizing that collective action is crucial to contain the outbreak and protect the community. "This is a moment where we all need to do our part," Dr. Simmer stated. "Vaccination is not just a personal responsibility; it's a civic duty."