The South Carolina outbreak adds to a growing national concern as measles cases rise sharply across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 2025 has seen the highest number of infections in more than three decades — with over 1,500 confirmed cases. Many infections have been linked to unvaccinated individuals and communities with declining immunization coverage.
Minnesota recently reported two new cases, bringing its total to 20 this year, while earlier outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico caused three deaths. Health experts say measles can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, hearing loss, or death, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
Nationally, the CDC estimates that only 92.7% of U.S. kindergarteners were vaccinated during the 2023–2024 school year — below the 95% threshold needed to maintain herd immunity. South Carolina’s Upstate region currently has an estimated 90% immunity rate, leaving local communities particularly vulnerable.
Public health leaders continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination to prevent future outbreaks. “When vaccination rates fall, the protection that keeps entire communities safe begins to break down,” the CDC warns.
With measles spreading in several states and global cases surging, experts say renewed public education and vaccination campaigns will be essential to curb the disease’s resurgence and protect vulnerable populations nationwide.