South Carolina Measles Outbreak Update

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Published March 17th, 2026

Detected March 18th, 2026

Summary

The South Carolina Department of Public Health reported one new measles case, bringing the total outbreak count to 997. The update also provided data on age breakdown and vaccination status of cases. Vaccination is emphasized as the best prevention method.

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What changed

The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) issued an update on March 17, 2026, reporting one new measles case, increasing the total outbreak count to 997. The report details the age distribution of cases (263 under 5, 639 aged 5-17, 87 aged 18+, 8 unknown) and vaccination status (932 unvaccinated, 20 partially vaccinated, 26 fully vaccinated, 19 unknown). Eight individuals are currently in quarantine, with the latest end date for quarantine being April 2.

This notice serves as an informational update on the ongoing measles outbreak. While it does not introduce new regulatory requirements or deadlines, it reinforces the importance of vaccination as the primary preventive measure. Healthcare providers and public health authorities should continue to promote vaccination and monitor case counts. The DPH encourages residents to stay informed via their dedicated outbreak webpage and dashboard.

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TUESDAY MEASLES UPDATE: DPH Reports One New Measles Case, Bringing Outbreak total to 997

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 17, 2026

COLUMBIA, S.C. ― The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting one new case of measles in the state since Friday, bringing the total number of cases in South Carolina related to the Upstate outbreak to 997.

There are currently eight people in quarantine and none in isolation. The latest end of quarantine for these is April 2.

Vaccination continues to be the best way to prevent measles and stop this outbreak. Vaccines are available at many primary care provider offices and pharmacies, as well as DPH Health Departments.

To stay up-to-date on the latest measles outbreak information, visit our dedicated webpage here. For additional data related to the outbreak, visit our Measles Dashboard.

Outbreak Data Points
Age breakdown of 997 cases:
Under 5: 263
5-17: 639
18+: 87
Unknown: 8

Vaccination status:
932 unvaccinated, 20 partially vaccinated with one of the recommended two-dose MMR sequence, 26 vaccinated with the two-dose MMR sequence, and 19 unknown.