Health officials in South Carolina are warning that the highly infectious measles virus is spreading undetected in communities in the northern part of the state, specifically Spartanburg and Greenville counties.
Last week, officials in Greenville identified an eighth measles case that is potentially linked to the outbreak. Seven outbreak cases had been confirmed since September 25 in neighboring Spartanburg, where transmission was identified in two schools: Fairforest Elementary and Global Academy, a public charter school.
Across those two schools, at least 153 unvaccinated children were exposed to the virus and have been put in a 21-day quarantine, during which they are barred from attending school, state officials said in a press conference. Twenty-one days is the maximum incubation period, spanning from when a person is exposed to when they would develop a rash if infected.
It’s concerning to hear about the measles outbreak and the impact on unvaccinated children. It’s a reminder of the importance of vaccinations for public health. Hopefully, everyone stays safe during this quarantine period.
Yes, it really is concerning. Measles can lead to serious complications, even in healthy children, which makes vaccination so important. It’s a reminder for all of us about the value of herd immunity in protecting vulnerable populations.
Absolutely, it’s alarming how quickly measles can spread, especially among unvaccinated populations. It’s also worth noting that vaccination not only protects individuals but helps safeguard the community by achieving herd immunity.