Measles Spreading Fast in South Carolina: What's Going On?
South Carolina is currently battling a significant measles outbreak that began in October and continues to escalate. As of Tuesday, the number of confirmed cases has reached 111, placing the state on par with Utah and Arizona, which are also experiencing major outbreaks.
Hotspots and Vaccination Rates
The outbreak is predominantly affecting the northern region of South Carolina, with Spartanburg and Greenville counties being the most impacted. These areas have notably low vaccination rates:
- Spartanburg County: Only 90% of students are vaccinated.
- Greenville County: Slightly better at 92.4%, but still insufficient to halt the virus's spread.
Rapid Spread and Quarantine Measures
Measles is highly contagious, capable of infecting up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus. Currently, 254 people are in quarantine due to exposure and lack of vaccination. Among them are 43 students at Inman Intermediate School.
The outbreak originated at the Way of Truth Church in Inman. Schools are now emerging as new hotspots for exposure. The quarantine period lasts 21 days, the incubation period for measles symptoms to appear.
The Role of Religious Exemptions
Low vaccination rates are exacerbated by religious exemptions:
- Spartanburg County: 8.2% of students have religious exemptions, the highest rate in the state.
- Greenville County: 5.3% of students are exempted for religious reasons.
These exemptions contribute to a higher risk of measles transmission within the community.
Vaccination Status of Measles Cases
The majority of measles cases involve unvaccinated individuals:
- 105 out of 111 cases: Unvaccinated.
- 1 case: Fully vaccinated individual.
- Remaining cases: Partially vaccinated or unknown vaccination status.
A National Perspective
South Carolina's outbreak is part of a broader national trend. Vaccination rates are declining across the country due to the spread of misinformation. Measles cases have reached a 33-year high, with nearly 2,000 cases reported this year and 46 outbreaks nationwide.
