In a follow-up on the measles outbreak in upstate South Carolina, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed two additional cases of measles related to an ongoing outbreak of measles in Spartanburg County.
The two new cases bring the number of confirmed measles cases in South Carolina to 10 since July 9, 2025, eight of which have been in Spartanburg County.
Some cases are travel-related exposures or close contacts of known cases. Other cases have no identified source, suggesting that measles is circulating in the community and could spread further. Officials have seen measles spread quickly in unvaccinated households here in South Carolina. In addition, it can spread quickly in unvaccinated communities based on outbreaks in other states.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
The disease is very contagious and is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. As many as 9 out of 10 close contacts who have not had the disease earlier or have not been vaccinated with the MMR vaccine may become infected if exposed. After an infected person leaves a location, the measles virus remains alive for up to two hours on surfaces and in the air.
The initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough and runny nose. In about 2-4 days, these symptoms are followed by a rash that usually lasts 5-6 days. Severe complications can occur with measles, including pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death.
Complications caused by the virus can occur in as many as 3 out of 10 cases. Complications are most often seen in children under 5 years of age, adults over the age of 20, pregnant women, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
The measles vaccine (MMR and MMRV) is the best way to protect yourself and others against measles. About 93% of people vaccinated with one dose have permanent protection and about 97% get protection after two doses of measles vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for all infants at 12 months of age. A second dose is recommended between 4 to 6 years of age. Current measles vaccination is also a requirement to attend childcare or school in South Carolina unless there is a valid exemption.