Measles continues to spread in the Upstate outbreak, with the count now at 176 reported illnesses.
In a Monday news release, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) encouraged people throughout the Palmetto State, especially in the Upstate, to ensure their vaccinations are up to date — even for diseases beyond measles. On Tuesday, the agency reported 20 additional illnesses since its update last Friday.
DPH also confirmed the hospitalization of three people (at least one child) because of "complications of the disease." Additional details were not provided because of privacy standards.
Of the 176 known cases in this outbreak, DPH reports only one person had been fully vaccinated, while 165 people had not received any of the recommended doses. The others had either been partially vaccinated or the causes are unknown.
More than 40% of cases in the outbreak are a result of household transmission, according to Bell.
"If households or families in an entirety are opting not to be vaccinated, that entire household becomes at risk," she said.
The outbreak was confirmed Oct. 2, but DPH had first identified a resident with measles in July. And 114, or about 64%, of the cases in this outbreak were identified in December.
Bell said in media briefings throughout December that holiday gatherings and potential quarantine breaks could cause an uptick in cases. Those potentially infected during holiday travel may not yet experience symptoms, but someone with measles is contagious for up to four days before the disease's notorious rash appears.
Additional details about the current Upstate outbreak and other important information can be found on the DPH website.
