The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed eight new cases of measles in Spartanburg County since Friday, raising the state’s total to 33 confirmed cases this year, with 30 of those related to the ongoing outbreak in the Upstate. All newly reported cases have been traced back to close contacts of known infections who were under home quarantine.
In response to this alarming rise in cases, the DPH has set in motion a Mobile Health Unit that will visit various locations to administer the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine free of charge to unvaccinated individuals. The schedule for the upcoming week includes:
– Thursday, Oct. 30: 2-6 p.m. at Inman Library, 50 Mill St., Inman, SC 29349
– Monday, Nov. 3: 1-4 p.m. at Boiling Springs Library, 871 Double Bridge Rd., Boiling Springs, S.C. 29316
– Wednesday, Nov. 5: 1-4 p.m. at Boiling Springs Library, 871 Double Bridge Rd., Boiling Springs, S.C. 29316
– Thursday, Nov. 6: 1-4 p.m. at Boiling Springs Library, 871 Double Bridge Rd., Boiling Springs, S.C. 29316
Since its launch on Oct. 16, the Mobile Health Unit has already administered 24 vaccines, consisting of 19 doses to adults and 5 to children, demonstrating proactive efforts to curb the outbreak.
The timeline for the measles cases in South Carolina indicates that the first two cases were reported in Spartanburg County back in July, with the outbreak officially recognized by DPH on Oct. 2. Subsequent cases have emerged throughout the Upstate area, with several having been linked to specific public locations, raising concerns about community transmission.
Health officials emphasize that measles is highly contagious, with the ability to spread from individuals four days before and up to four days after a rash appears. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours in indoor settings after an infected person leaves, making it crucial for community members to remain vigilant.
The DPH has committed to providing updates on the situation bi-weekly, with information being posted on their website every Tuesday and Friday at noon. This effort aims to keep the public informed about current cases and ongoing health interventions. By encouraging vaccination and prompt reporting of any suspected cases, officials hope to contain the outbreak and protect the community’s health.