The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting six new cases of measles in the state since Tuesday, bringing the total number of illnesses related to the Upstate outbreak to 985.
There are currently 61 people in quarantine and two in isolation.
Additionally state health officials have now identified public exposures at Sugar Ridge Elementary where less than five individuals are in quarantine. Plus, community exposures at the Costco on Blackstock Rd., in Spartanburg. Anyone who visited the location on Sunday, Feb. 6 between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. should monitor for symptoms through March 15.
Earlier this week, State Epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell cautioned that the spread of the virus is still a great concern despite a recent decline in new cases. She said the outbreak far from over.
"This is not over yet, it's not nearly over yet," Bell said. "It is the pockets of undervaccinated people who remain susceptible. That ongoing susceptibility in our population may continue to fuel ongoing spread."
Susceptible pockets include churches or places of religion, schools, social settings and Spartanburg County where the virus has been centered since its onset last fall.
Dr. Bell also shared that upcoming spring breaks may cause an uptick in cases like what was seen during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. She said the virus does not slow during a particular season like other respiratory illnesses.
DPH is reminding South Carolinians that measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccines are available at many primary care provider offices and pharmacies, as well as DPH Health Departments. Residents can also receive the vaccine - at no cost - on Tuesday, March 3, at Grace Community Church in Spartanburg between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.