South Carolina Faces Largest Measles Outbreak in Decades

South Carolina is currently experiencing the largest measles outbreak in the United States in over 30 years, with nearly 1,000 confirmed cases reported as of early March 2026. The outbreak began approximately five months ago and has seen a significant increase in cases, with five new infections reported in just one week. The state's childhood immunization rates have declined in recent years, influenced by local political leaders and parents questioning the CDC's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine mandates.

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In response to the outbreak, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is deploying staff to assist South Carolina's health officials. Three disease detectives from the CDC's Epidemic Intelligence Service are expected to arrive next week to analyze data collected during the outbreak. This deployment follows the arrival of a dozen public health experts funded by the nonprofit CDC Foundation, who have been assisting with day-to-day containment efforts. Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina's epidemiologist, emphasized that the CDC's involvement is crucial for understanding transmission chains and improving response strategies.

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The CDC's new acting director, Jay Bhattacharya, has publicly urged Americans to get vaccinated against measles, stating that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against the disease. This message contrasts sharply with previous statements from former acting CDC head Jim O'Neill, who raised concerns about the safety of the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine without evidence. Bhattacharya's call for vaccination comes as the U.S. aims to maintain its status of having eliminated measles, despite the highest number of confirmed infections in three decades.

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The CDC's approach has faced criticism, particularly regarding the previous leadership's mixed messages about vaccine safety. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has also shifted recommendations for childhood vaccines, advocating for parental discretion in consultation with doctors. This has drawn rebukes from major medical groups, highlighting a divide in public health messaging.

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While South Carolina's health officials report a slowing of infections due to a 70% increase in vaccination rates compared to the previous year, the overall situation remains critical. The Pan American Health Organization has noted that the U.S. has requested a postponement to review its measles elimination status until November, indicating ongoing concerns about the outbreak's management.

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• "Measles is preventable, and vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you." — Jay Bhattacharya, Acting Director, CDC

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• "The CDC stands ready to provide technical staff, laboratory support, vaccines, and therapeutics upon request." — Jay Bhattacharya, Acting Director, CDC

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• "The day-to-day work that supports those disease containment efforts is essential." — Dr. Linda Bell, South Carolina Epidemiologist

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The situation in South Carolina underscores the challenges of managing public health crises amid fluctuating vaccination rates and public sentiment regarding vaccines.

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