Full Breakdown
South Carolina Faces Largest Measles Outbreak in Over 30 Years
2/25/2026, 8:49:25 AM
Current Situation and Case Statistics
As of February 24, 2026, South Carolina is experiencing a significant measles outbreak, with the total number of confirmed cases rising to 979. This includes six new infections reported since the previous update. The outbreak, which began in October 2025, has primarily affected unvaccinated individuals, with 913 cases reported in this group. Additionally, 19 individuals were partially vaccinated, 26 were fully vaccinated, and the vaccination status of 21 cases remains unknown. The majority of cases involve children aged 5 to 17, followed by those under five years old. Currently, 91 individuals are in quarantine due to exposure to the virus, and one person is in isolation.
Public Health Response and Assistance
In response to the outbreak, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has enlisted the help of a dozen infectious disease specialists from the CDC Foundation, an independent nonprofit organization. Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina's epidemiologist, indicated that these experts will assist with case investigations, contact tracing, and data management over the next several months. This decision to seek support from the CDC Foundation rather than the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been viewed as politically strategic, given the declining vaccination rates and local criticism of the CDC's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vaccination Efforts and Community Impact
Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. DPH is offering free measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines at a mobile clinic scheduled for March 3 at Grace Community Church in Spartanburg. Despite these efforts, the outbreak has led to at least 21 hospitalizations due to complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Public exposures have been identified at various locations, including the Willow Creek Gathers Homeschool Co-op, Libertas Academy, and Mabry Middle School.
Criticism and Political Context
The outbreak has unfolded against a backdrop of declining childhood immunization rates in South Carolina, exacerbated by political leaders advocating for personal choice regarding vaccines. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., known for his anti-vaccine stance, has not publicly addressed the outbreak. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently allocated $1.4 million to support South Carolina's measles response, while the CDC continues to coordinate with state health officials.
Conflicting Reports and Future Outlook
While the number of new cases has slowed, health officials warn that the outbreak is not yet under control. Dr. Bell noted that although the rate of new infections is decreasing, the community must remain vigilant. The CDC Foundation's involvement is expected to bolster local efforts, but the long-term effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles.” — U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- “we are not out of the woods.” — Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina Epidemiologist
This outbreak highlights the critical importance of vaccination and public health preparedness in managing infectious disease threats.
