The measles virus continues to spread in South Carolina with 44 new cases reported in the state Department of Public Health's (DPH) Friday update. The latest count brings the total number of cases associated with the Upstate outbreak to 920.
DPH also reports additional public exposures in Spartanburg County. Those include:
- Social Security Administration, 145 N. Church St., Spartanburg: Thursday, Jan. 29, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Boost Mobile, 1515 Asheville Hwy., Spartanburg: Thursday, Jan. 29, 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
- Rick Erwin's Level 10 Restaurant, 225 W. Main St., Spartanburg: Thursday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m. - midnight.
- Target, 6025 Wade Hampton Blvd., Taylors: Friday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m. - 10:15 p.m.
South Carolina currently leads the nation in measles cases and while most have been centered around Spartanburg County, the highly contagious virus is infecting other areas of the state. On Tuesday, DPH reported a new case in Sumter County; however, it's still not clear whether that case is linked to the Upstate outbreak.
As more people contract the disease, DPH continues to stress the importance of immunization. State health officials urge unvaccinated South Carolinians to consider the vaccination to help "stop this outbreak." Those who are most at risk include pregnant women, younger children and those with weak immune systems.
In response to the ongoing spread, DPH is offering additional opportunities for the public to receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine at no cost. The department's Mobile Health Unit will be located at:
- Zion Hill Baptist Church, Inman: Friday, Feb. 13, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
- Grace Community Church, Spartanburg: Friday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Vaccines also are available at many primary care provider offices and pharmacies, as well as DPH Health Departments.
DPH adds there was a strong increase in MMR vaccinations last month with nearly 17,000 doses administered statewide—an increase of more than 7,000 doses (72%) compared to last January.
Additional information about the measles outbreak in South Carolina can be found on the DPH website. South Carolina ETV and Public Radio will continue to provide the latest on the spread as updates are released.