A significant measles outbreak in South Carolina has doubled within a week, primarily affecting unvaccinated children and teenagers. This surge has raised alarms among public health officials, especially given the historical effectiveness of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles.
Current Vaccination Rates
The vaccination rates for the MMR vaccine in Spartanburg County stand at 90% for the 2024-25 school year. This figure is below the 95% threshold recommended by doctors to prevent an outbreak. In neighboring Greenville County, the rate is slightly higher, at 90.5%.
Public Health Response
Despite efforts by the South Carolina Department of Public Health to provide vaccinations, attendance has been low. On recent vaccination days, only 18 individuals showed up for the free shots, split equally between adults and children. Mobile health units were deployed in Spartanburg, but the low turnout highlights a concerning trend.
Community Impact and Vaccine Hesitancy
The outbreak appears to be centered in a community in Spartanburg County, heavily populated by Ukrainian immigrants. Dr. Eliza Varadi, a pediatrician in the area, noted that her patients often carry a level of distrust towards vaccines, influenced by their past experiences under Soviet rule. This skepticism complicates efforts to encourage vaccine uptake.
Increasing Demand for Vaccinations
Conversely, in Columbia, there is a rising demand for vaccinations from families eager to protect their children. Health officials reported calls from families requesting immediate access to the vaccine. For babies as young as six months, vaccinations can be administered during outbreaks, although they will still require additional doses later.
Notable Cases and Potential Exposures
- On January 2, an individual visited the South Carolina State Museum while infectious, potentially exposing nearly 1,000 visitors.
- Unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will need to quarantine for 21 days unless they receive vaccination within 72 hours of exposure.
Spread Beyond South Carolina
The outbreak has not been contained to South Carolina alone. Reports indicate cases in neighboring states, including:
- Ohio: At least three diagnosed cases among children.
- North Carolina: Eight cases reported since December, with ties to the South Carolina outbreak.
- Washington: Three cases confirmed in Snohomish County, linked to a visiting family from South Carolina.
As more diagnoses are anticipated, public health officials express concern about the outbreak growing worse before it improves. Dr. James Lewis from Snohomish County has noted that some cases may remain unreported as individuals manage mild symptoms at home, emphasizing the need for vigilant public health measures.
