New Cases Linked to Quarantined Contacts
Health officials in South Carolina confirmed that the state’s measles outbreak has expanded to 15 cases, all connected to previously known infections. The Department of Public Health said the new patients were already in quarantine when they became contagious, meaning no new community exposures have occurred. Authorities emphasized that the containment measures appear to be working, with all affected individuals under medical supervision.
Schools at the Center of Early Spread
The outbreak originated in Spartanburg County, where early cases were linked to Global Academy and Fairforest Elementary School. More than 150 unvaccinated students were placed in a 21-day home quarantine after potential exposure. At Global Academy, only about 17% of students were fully vaccinated, compared with 85% at Fairforest Elementary. Officials say low immunization rates at some schools have heightened the risk of further spread.
State Pushes Vaccination Amid National Surge
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has deployed a mobile vaccination unit to Spartanburg County to offer free MMR shots to residents. The outbreak is part of a nationwide resurgence, with more than 1,500 measles cases reported across 41 states in 2025. Health experts continue to urge families to ensure their children’s vaccinations are up to date to prevent future outbreaks.
