Summary
In Spartanburg County, South Carolina, a measles outbreak has emerged, marking one of the largest in the U.S. since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. The outbreak involves mostly unvaccinated school-aged children, and has stirred concerns as vaccination rates decline, potentially jeopardizing herd immunity.
Key Facts
- A measles outbreak in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, involves 789 cases, primarily in unvaccinated children.
- It's the largest U.S. measles outbreak since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000.
- The U.S. could lose its "eliminated" status due to outbreaks in several states.
- Measles vaccination rates in Spartanburg are about 90% for school-aged children, with some schools having lower rates due to religious exemptions.
- The U.S. recommends two MMR vaccine doses for children, which are 97% effective at preventing measles.
- Two children died in a Texas measles outbreak last year.
- Herd immunity requires about 95% of the population to be vaccinated to prevent the disease's spread.
- State Senator Josh Kimbrell has voiced concerns over the outbreak threatening vaccinated individuals.
