October 16, 2025

Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County Raises Concerns

News Summary

Sixteen cases of measles confirmed in Spartanburg, prompting schools to quarantine students and health officials to stress vaccination importance.

Spartanburg, South Carolina – The measles outbreak in South Carolina has escalated, now affecting 16 individuals as of October 14, according to state health officials. This surge in cases poses a significant concern regarding community transmission, particularly as 12 out of the 16 cases have been reported in Spartanburg County.

In response to the outbreak, two elementary schools in Spartanburg County, Global Academy of South Carolina and Fairforest Elementary School, have undertaken precautionary measures. Nearly 140 students across these schools are currently quarantining at home due to their unvaccinated status against measles. Global Academy, which has a particularly low vaccination rate of only 17% among its more than 600 students, is significantly below the 95% threshold considered necessary to prevent outbreaks. Meanwhile, Fairforest Elementary has a vaccination rate of 85% among its more than 760 students.

On October 14, health officials announced five new cases of measles, all linked to the aforementioned schools with low vaccination rates. State officials have noted that while some of the cases are associated with travel or close contacts of known infected individuals, others have no known source, suggesting potential community transmission. There is heightened concern that measles could be circulating within the community, increasing the risk of further spread.

A Crunch Fitness location in Greenville has also been identified as a site of exposure for one child in September, adding to the concern over the outbreak. The spread of measles has been alarming nationwide, with the United States reporting over 1,500 cases in 2025, marking the highest level in over three decades. Contributing factors to this resurgence include a decline in vaccination rates, particularly among parents who have chosen to exempt their children for various reasons.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that 87% of confirmed measles cases in 2025 are linked to outbreaks and underscored the critical importance of vaccination. Measles symptoms typically start with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a characteristic rash. The MMR vaccine, which provides 97% protection against measles and is administered in two doses, is pivotal for public health safety. It is essential to note that approximately 1 in 5 individuals infected with measles may require hospitalization, with complications that can include pneumonia and encephalitis.

In light of the escalating outbreak, South Carolina health authorities have announced their plan to offer free vaccinations as part of their response efforts. Current immunity levels in South Carolina’s Upstate region hover around 90%, which is viewed as vulnerable. Health officials are urging the public to get vaccinated to help control the ongoing outbreak.

The community is encouraged to seek vaccination as a preventative measure and to remain vigilant as health officials continue to monitor the situation. Keeping immunization rates at a safe level is imperative to ensuring community health and preventing further measles outbreaks.