South Carolina Measles Outbreak Expected to End by April 26, Official Predicts
South Carolina could declare its measles outbreak over by April 26 if no new infections appear, the state’s lead epidemiologist said on March 25. The warning came after a week without additional cases and ongoing surveillance by public health authorities.
Current situation and timeline
The outbreak began in October and is the largest in the country in decades. Total confirmed cases remain at 997, with no new reports for one week.
Under state and federal rules, an outbreak is considered over after 42 days without a new infection. That period equals twice the 21‑day incubation window and signals halted transmission.
Public health measures and impact
Officials credited strong vaccination campaigns for slowing spread. Two people remain in quarantine, and none are currently in isolation, the state health department said.
The epidemiologist cautioned that importation of measles remains possible. She said authorities will continue surveillance to detect any new cases quickly.
Federal support and data analysis
Three disease detectives from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Epidemic Intelligence Service joined the response earlier this month. They are helping analyze large datasets to trace transmission chains.
- Confirmed cases: 997
- No new cases reported in one week
- Quarantined: 2 people
- In isolation: 0 people
- Outbreak start: October
- End of outbreak threshold: 42 days without new infections
An official predicts the South Carolina measles outbreak could end by April 26 if the current trend continues. Filmogaz.com reported these details based on statements from state health officials and epidemiologists.
