The state Department of Public Health has confirmed the third case of measles in South Carolina so far this year in an unvaccinated Upstate resident.
The first case of the highly contagious disease in the state this year was reported in July as several outbreaks across the country led to thousands of infections.
The latest case involves an unvaccinated person who did not have immunity from a previous measles infection. The person also did not have a specific, known exposure to someone with measles but did have a recent international trip to a country with an ongoing measles outbreak.
DPH reports the person was not contagious while traveling and is isolating at home to prevent further spread of the virus.
Medical officials sounded the alarm in August about the ongoing public health risk of measles in the Palmetto State.
Measles can lead to hospitalization and even death, according to DPH. Initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough and runny nose. These symptoms are followed by a rash. The rash usually lasts five or six days.
“Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus that affects the respiratory tract, and can result in serious complications affecting the brain, blood cells, complications in pregnancy, and long-term neurologic effects,” said Linda Bell, state epidemiologist in a statement announcing the latest case. “This virus spreads quickly, which is why we must act now to prevent its spread.”
Bell said being vaccinated is the best way to protect against the disease.
The measles vaccine is over 97% effective. DPH offers the following guidance on measles immunization::
- Children should receive two doses of measles, mumps, rubella vaccine: the first at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second at 4 to 6 years of age.
- Children 6 to 12 months should get an early dose of MMR vaccine if they are traveling to a country where measles is common.
- For all ages, it is important to talk to your doctor if you are going to be traveling to another country.
For more information about measles, visit the DPH website or CDC website.
