South Carolina has reported its first measles case of 2025, according to the state’s Department of Public Health. The affected individual, who is not vaccinated, contracted the virus during an international trip and is currently in isolation.
This marks the first time a case of measles has been reported in South Carolina since September 2024. To prevent further spread, health officials have launched a contact investigation, notifying people who may have been exposed and encouraging them to quarantine voluntarily.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed three measles deaths in the US this year, with over 1,200 cases reported as of July 1st. The virus spreads quickly and can cause serious illness, including pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and even death.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that requires vaccination to prevent spread. Health officials warn that the number of unvaccinated children entering school poses a significant risk for outbreaks. With herd immunity rates below 95% in South Carolina, health experts are concerned about the potential for large-scale outbreaks.
Anyone with measles should isolate themselves for at least four days after the appearance of symptoms, and adults can receive an MMR vaccine even if they’ve previously received multiple shots or contracted the virus.
Source: https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article310288255.html