South Carolina is experiencing one of the biggest measles outbreaks the U.S. has seen in decades.
As a pediatrician, I want families to have clear, accurate information about what measles is, how it spreads, and how we keep our kids and communities safe.
This page is a resource for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone with questions.
What is measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world.
If one person has measles, they can infect 12–18 others. About 90% of people who are not immune will become infected if they are exposed. The virus can linger in the air of a room for hours after an infected person leaves.
People with measles are contagious for about eight days—four days before the rash appears and four days after.
Common symptoms include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red or watery eyes
- Sore throat
- Rash
- Small white spots inside the mouth
Symptoms usually begin with fever and respiratory symptoms, with the rash appearing about two weeks after exposure.
Why measles can be serious
Measles is not just a rash. It can cause severe illness, especially in babies, young children, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.
- About 1 in 5 people with measles will be hospitalized.
- About 1 in 20 will develop pneumonia.
- About 1 in 1,000 will develop brain swelling (encephalitis), which can lead to seizures, permanent disability, or death.
There is no medication that cures measles. Doctors can only provide supportive care—fluids, fever control, and breathing support in severe cases.
The Measles Vaccine
Before vaccines were widely available, measles caused hundreds of deaths each year in the United States.
The good news: measles is preventable.
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) is safe, effective, and has protected generations of children.
- First dose: around 12 months
- Second dose: around age 4–5 (before kindergarten)
- Two doses provide about 97% protection.
To stop the spread of measles, about 95% of a community needs to be vaccinated.
For the 2024–2025 school year, only about 92–93% of South Carolina kindergarteners had received both doses. That gap makes outbreaks more likely.
What South Carolina families should do right now
Check vaccination records.
- Make sure children are up to date on MMR doses.
Call your pediatrician with questions.
- If your child has been exposed or has symptoms, call ahead before going to a clinic so staff can protect other patients.
Stay home if sick.
- Keeping symptomatic children home helps protect classmates, teachers, and vulnerable neighbors.
Rely on trusted information.
- Your pediatrician and public health agencies are the best sources for guidance during an outbreak.
Trusted Resources
South Carolina Department of Public Health: Measles Outbreak Resource Center
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommended Vaccine Schedule: Birth through 6 years – 7 through 18 year
Additional vaccine resources: CHOP Vaccine Education Center
If you have questions about vaccines or measles exposure, talk with your child’s pediatrician. They know your child’s health history and can guide you through next steps.
A note from Dr. Annie Andrews
As a pediatrician and a mom, my focus is simple: keeping kids safe and healthy. Outbreaks like this are stressful for families, and it’s normal to have questions.
Vaccines are one of the most powerful tools we have to protect children—not just our own, but the newborn down the street, the child with cancer, the classmate with asthma.
We get through moments like this by taking care of each other. If you’re unsure about anything, reach out to your pediatrician. We’re here to help.