News Summary
Health officials have confirmed 16 measles cases in South Carolina, primarily affecting schools in Spartanburg County with low vaccination rates. A recent surge includes five new cases linked to Global Academy of South Carolina and Fairforest Elementary School, prompting health authorities to quarantine 139 students. As measles continues to spread, officials emphasize the need for vaccinations and ongoing public health monitoring.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina – A total of 16 measles cases have been confirmed in South Carolina since July, reflecting a concerning public health issue focused primarily on Spartanburg County schools with notably low vaccination rates. On October 14, health officials reported five new cases linked to two educational institutions: Global Academy of South Carolina, which has a critically low vaccination rate of 17%, and Fairforest Elementary School, where the vaccination rate stands at 85%.
The rising number of cases has resulted in 139 students currently under quarantine due to their potential exposure at these schools. Health authorities are also investigating the origin of the infections, with some cases connected to travel and others displaying no known source, suggesting possible community transmission.
In addition to the cases in Spartanburg County, there is a separate confirmed case in Greenville County that was linked to an exposure at Crunch Fitness on September 30, where individuals may have been exposed between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Transmission and Symptoms of Measles
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with the capability of being transmitted through coughs, sneezes, and even contaminated air for up to two hours following exposure. The symptoms typically begin with a cough, fever, runny nose, and red eyes, progressing to a characteristic rash. The incubation period for measles may extend up to 21 days, with individuals being contagious starting four days before the rash appears.
Measles Outbreaks and Vaccination Efforts
Approximately 87% of confirmed measles cases in the U.S. are related to outbreaks, which have seen a rising trend nationally in 2025, with record levels reported especially among unvaccinated populations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the measles vaccine is 97% effective in preventing infection, underscoring the importance of widespread immunization.
In response to the outbreak, health officials in South Carolina are planning to offer free vaccinations to combat the spread of measles. This initiative aims to increase vaccination rates, particularly in areas with high levels of unvaccinated individuals.
Ongoing Public Health Monitoring
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is committed to tracking the outbreak closely and will provide updates bi-weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays, ensuring that the community remains informed about the state of the outbreak and vaccination efforts.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak in Spartanburg County serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of highly contagious diseases. With ongoing public health efforts to encourage vaccination and track outbreaks, officials hope to mitigate the impact of this resurgence and protect the health of the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Measles Outbreak Triggers Quarantine for Spartanburg Students
Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County Schools
Child Confirmed with Measles in Greenville County
Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County Linked to Local Schools
Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County Raises Concerns
Spartanburg County Experiences Measles Outbreak Linked to Schools
Ongoing Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County
South Carolina Reports Surge in Measles Cases
Measles Outbreak Triggers Quarantine for Unvaccinated Students in Spartanburg County
Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County Raises Concerns
Additional Resources
- USA Today: South Carolina Measles Outbreak Rises in Schools
- Wikipedia: Measles
- WYFF4: South Carolina Measles Outbreak at Crunch Fitness
- Google Search: South Carolina Measles Outbreak
- SC Daily Gazette: 150 Spartanburg County Students Quarantined
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Measles
- Greenville Journal: Measles Outbreak in Spartanburg County
- Google News: Measles Outbreak 2025
- Post and Courier: South Carolina’s Measles Cases
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
