A measles outbreak has recently reached Clemson University in South Carolina. An individual linked to the university has tested positive for this highly contagious disease. The state’s Department of Public Health (DPH) is managing the situation by isolating the individual and tracing contacts to prevent further spread.
This latest case is part of a larger outbreak in South Carolina, where the DPH reported 558 cases since last fall, with 124 new infections in just the past week. Dr. Johnathon Elkes, an emergency medicine expert, noted that the number of cases has dramatically increased, warning that the situation could worsen.
So far, eight individuals have needed hospitalization due to measles complications, although it’s unclear how many are currently hospitalized. An estimated 200 people are actively infected, but this could be an undercount since those infected can spread the virus before showing any symptoms.
The outbreak has primarily affected children and teenagers, many of whom are unvaccinated. Measles is marked by a red, splotchy rash that often begins on the scalp. It can be deadly, as illustrated by the 2,242 cases reported in the U.S. last year, including three fatalities, according to the CDC. Alarmingly, 93% of those affected were either unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination statuses.
Vaccination is the most effective way to combat measles. As noted by health experts, unvaccinated individuals can spread the virus to many others before they even know they are sick. It’s crucial for communities to stay informed and consider vaccinations to protect themselves and those around them.
For more information on measles and vaccination rates, you can check the CDC data.
