A case of measles has been confirmed at Clemson University. The school announced this in a recent press release. They were informed by the South Carolina Department of Public Health that someone connected to the university has the disease.
The affected person is in isolation, and health officials are tracing anyone who might have come into contact with them. As of now, about 98% of students at Clemson’s main campus have shown proof of immunity against measles.
Measles can spread easily. A person is contagious four days before and four days after a rash appears. Experts emphasize the importance of quick action in such cases. They recommend immediate isolation for anyone who is actively infected, lasting until four days after the rash begins.
According to the Department of Public Health, anyone exposed who lacks documented immunity must quarantine for 21 days following their last exposure. However, if they receive the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of being exposed, they won’t need to quarantine.
This announcement comes amid a troubling surge in measles cases across South Carolina. Over the past week, cases increased by nearly 30%. Health officials reported 124 new cases, bringing the state’s total to 558. There’s been a significant outbreak in Spartanburg County, making it the worst in the U.S. right now.
Measles is also making headlines in other states like Arizona, Florida, and Virginia, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Historical data shows that measles outbreaks tend to spike when vaccination rates drop. In the past, dedicated vaccination efforts have led to significant declines in cases.
In 2019, the U.S. saw its highest number of measles cases since the disease was declared eliminated in 2000. While public health officials are working hard to contain this outbreak, the current situation highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding vaccination awareness and the importance of public health measures.
For more details on public health guidelines and updates on the outbreak, visit the South Carolina Department of Health.
Source link
measles, health, South Carolina, Clemson University
