Full Breakdown
South Carolina Measles Outbreak Approaches 1,000 Cases
2/21/2026, 1:50:54 AM
Current Status of the Outbreak
As of February 20, 2026, South Carolina has reported a total of 973 confirmed measles cases, marking an increase of 11 cases since the previous report on February 17. The outbreak, which began in October 2025, is primarily concentrated in the northwest region of the state, particularly in Greenville and Spartanburg counties. State health officials have indicated that the outbreak could persist for weeks or even months due to low vaccination rates among the population.
Vaccination and Public Health Response
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has noted that 906 of the infected individuals were unvaccinated, while 20 were partially vaccinated, 26 were fully vaccinated, and 21 had unknown vaccination status. In response to the outbreak, DPH has activated mobile vaccination units, with a free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination event scheduled for March 3 at Grace Community Church in Spartanburg. Health officials continue to emphasize that vaccination is the most effective means of preventing measles and controlling the outbreak.
Public Exposures and Quarantine Measures
Public exposure sites have been identified, including Libertas Academy, where 17 individuals are currently in quarantine, and Walmart in Powdersville, where potential exposure occurred on February 8. As of the latest updates, there are 105 individuals in quarantine and seven in isolation, with the quarantine period expected to end on March 15. Complications from the disease have led to at least 20 hospitalizations, highlighting the severity of the outbreak.
Official Statements and Perspectives
Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina's state epidemiologist, has indicated that while the outbreak appears to be slowing, the state is "not out of the woods yet." She cautioned that the outbreak will not be considered over until 42 days after the last confirmed case. The DPH has been closely monitoring the situation and has reported a decrease in daily case counts, suggesting a potential decline in the outbreak's intensity.
Criticism and Legislative Action
In light of the outbreak, a state senator has proposed legislation to eliminate religious exemptions for the measles vaccine in South Carolina. This move has sparked discussions about vaccination policies and public health safety, as officials stress the importance of achieving higher vaccination rates to prevent future outbreaks.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the DPH has reported a slowing of new cases, some sources indicate that the outbreak remains a significant public health concern, with ongoing transmission likely due to individuals in quarantine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also noted that current outbreaks are concentrated in under-vaccinated communities, raising concerns about the potential for further spread.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are not out of the woods, though, and I don’t want that to give people a sense of false security that this is over,” — Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist
- “DPH says vaccination remains the best protection against measles.” — South Carolina Department of Public Health
The situation remains fluid, and health officials continue to monitor the outbreak closely while encouraging vaccination to mitigate further spread.
