Upstate South Carolina, October 3, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Public Health has confirmed an outbreak of measles in the Upstate, with eight cases reported, all among unvaccinated individuals. Due to the contagious nature of the virus, health officials are taking measures to prevent further spread, including isolation and contact investigations. Residents are advised to check their vaccination status and ensure they are up to date with the MMR vaccine, the primary protection against this disease.
Greenville, SC – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has confirmed an outbreak of measles in the Upstate as of October 1, 2025. A total of eight measles cases have been reported in the Upstate, with five identified within the past month and linked to this outbreak. According to health officials, the outbreak is defined as three or more epidemiologically linked cases, indicating a notable concern for community health.
All individuals involved in the outbreak are unvaccinated and lack immunity from prior measles infections. To prevent further spread of the virus, cases are currently following isolation guidance. The SCDPH is actively conducting a contact investigation to notify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
Dr. Linda Bell, state epidemiologist and director of the Health Programs Branch, has highlighted the highly contagious nature of measles and the risk of rapid spread in communities with low immunization rates. She noted that as of September 30, 2025, a total of 1,544 confirmed measles cases have been reported across 41 states in the U.S., with over 40 outbreaks occurring nationally in 2025. Approximately 86% of those cases have been outbreak-associated, underlining a significant public health concern.
Residents are encouraged to review their vaccination records to ensure they are up to date on vaccinations, particularly the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is the most effective prevention tool against measles infection and transmission. Experts recommend that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose administered at around one year of age and a second dose between the ages of 4 to 6 years.
The initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red eyes, and runny nose, which are generally followed by a rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body. The rash typically lasts for five to six days. The measles virus can spread through airborne transmission when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after the infected individual has left the area. Individuals with measles are advised to stay home and avoid contact with others for four days after the onset of the rash. Those who are not immune and have been in contact with a measles case should quarantine as instructed.
Dr. Bell noted that the source of two cases was unidentified, indicating unrecognized community spread, and warned of an anticipated increase in cases. Individuals feeling ill are advised to stay home and contact their healthcare provider if they exhibit measles-like symptoms.
Key Facts Summary
- Outbreak location: Upstate South Carolina
- Confirmed cases: 8 total, with 5 reported in the last month
- Vaccination status: All individuals are unvaccinated
- Isolation guidance is in place to prevent further spread
- MMR vaccination recommended for prevention
Vaccination Guidelines
- First dose of MMR: Around 1 year of age
- Second dose of MMR: Ages 4 to 6
Symptoms of Measles
- Initial: Fever, cough, red eyes, runny nose
- Followed by rash: Begins on the face, spreads across the body
- Rash duration typically lasts: 5 to 6 days
Contagion Risk
The measles virus can spread by airborne transmission. It can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours. Anyone who has been in contact with a known case should closely monitor their health and follow quarantine instructions if necessary.
FAQs
What is the total number of measles cases reported in the Upstate South Carolina outbreak?
A total of eight measles cases have been reported in the Upstate.
What are the symptoms of measles?
The initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough, red eyes, and runny nose, followed by a rash that begins on the face and spreads across the body.
Is the measles vaccine effective?
The measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination is highlighted as the most effective prevention tool against measles infection and transmission.
How long does the measles rash last?
The rash typically lasts for five to six days.
What should individuals do if they exhibit symptoms of measles?
Individuals feeling ill are advised to stay home and contact their healthcare provider if they exhibit measles-like symptoms.
Key Features of Measles Outbreak
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Upstate South Carolina |
| Total Cases | 8 cases reported |
| Vaccination Status | All individuals are unvaccinated |
| Isolation Measures | Guidance followed to prevent spread |
| Vaccination Recommendation | MMR vaccine advised for all |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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South Carolina Issues Urgent Vaccination Warning Amid Measles Rise
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Texas Faces Largest Measles Outbreak in Nearly 30 Years
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Nominated as Health Secretary by Trump
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Upstate measles outbreak confirmed
- WISTV: Eight measles cases reported in Upstate
- Greenville Journal: Measles outbreak confirmed in Upstate South Carolina
- Post and Courier: First measles case confirmed in SC
- Fox Carolina: Another case of measles confirmed in Upstate
- Wikipedia: Measles
- Google Search: Measles Outbreak
- Google Scholar: Measles Outbreak 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- Google News: Measles
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
