With over 1,500 cases nationwide and falling vaccination rates, the U.S. faces its worst measles year in decades—threatening its elimination status.
South Carolina Confirms Measles Outbreak
Eight cases of measles have been confirmed in South Carolina’s Upstate region, officially marking an outbreak, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.
- All individuals affected were unvaccinated and had no previous immunity.
- The outbreak is concentrated in communities with low MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine coverage, which significantly increases transmission risk.
This localized outbreak mirrors a nationwide trend — a resurgence of measles across the U.S. after years of relative control.
The Bigger Picture: A National Measles Crisis
The United States is experiencing its worst measles outbreak in over 30 years, with 1,544 confirmed cases across 41 states as of late September 2025.
- Two deaths have been reported in West Texas, both children who developed severe complications.
- Outbreaks are no longer limited to children—adolescents and adults with incomplete or unknown vaccination status are also increasingly affected.
- Public health experts warn that declining vaccine uptake, global travel, and misinformation are driving this resurgence.
Why Measles Is So Dangerous
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known.
If someone is exposed and not immune, there’s a 90–95% chance of infection.
- It spreads through airborne droplets and can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left.
- The virus can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death, especially in young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
A Setback for Measles Elimination in the U.S.
The U.S. eliminated measles in 2000, meaning there was no sustained community transmission for more than 12 months. But that status is now at risk.
- To maintain elimination, high community immunity is crucial — at least 95% vaccination coverage.
- The MMR vaccine is 97% effective when both doses are administered properly.
- Falling rates due to vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and lack of access are undermining decades of progress.
What South Carolina’s Outbreak Signals
The situation in South Carolina is a wake-up call. Experts say it’s a preventable outbreak — had vaccination rates been higher, the virus wouldn’t have spread.
Key lessons:
- Unvaccinated communities create vulnerability zones where outbreaks take hold quickly.
- Delayed or skipped vaccines can affect not just individuals, but entire regions.
- Even one case in a low-immunity area can lead to widespread transmission.
What Can Be Done
To contain the outbreak and prevent future ones, public health officials urge the following:
1. Vaccinate or catch up
- Ensure you and your children have received both doses of the MMR vaccine.
- Adults unsure of their status can check records or consult healthcare providers.
2. Spread facts, not fear
- Share evidence-based information about vaccines. Counter misinformation with compassion and clarity.
3. Stay alert when traveling
- Measles is common in many countries. Vaccinate before international travel, especially if visiting outbreak regions.
4. Isolate and report symptoms
- Measles starts with fever, cough, and runny nose, followed by a distinctive red rash.
- Anyone suspected of having measles should isolate immediately and contact health authorities.
South Carolina has confirmed a measles outbreak with eight cases tied to low vaccination rates, reflecting a broader U.S. crisis with over 1,500 cases nationwide. With rising deaths and falling immunization, the nation’s measles elimination status is at risk. Vaccination remains the strongest defense against this preventable disease.
