### Measles Outbreak in South Carolina: A Growing Public Health Concern The state of South Carolina is currently facing a significant measles outbreak, with health officials reporting a total of **153 cases** as of December 23, 2025. This marks an increase of **nine new cases** since the last update, highlighting the ongoing public health challenge in the region, particularly in the northwest areas including Greenville and Spartanburg. The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is actively urging residents to get vaccinated to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease [https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/health/measles-outbreak-continues-to-grow-in-south-carolina/101-014ed637-656a-4960-a63b-80aa9e5b2277]. ### Breakdown of the Measles Outbreak Situation 1. **Current Statistics**: - Total measles cases reported: **153**. - New cases since last update: **9**. - Areas most affected: Northwest South Carolina, particularly **Greenville and Spartanburg** [https://bluewaterhealthyliving.com/news/national-news/measles-cases-in-south-carolina-rise-by-nine-to-153-state-health-department-says]. 2. **Health Department Response**: - The DPH is emphasizing the importance of vaccination as a preventive measure. - Officials are concerned about the potential for further spread, especially during the holiday season when travel and gatherings increase [https://www.hstoday.us/subject-matter-areas/pandemic-biohazard/health-officials-warn-south-carolina-measles-outbreak-could-persist-for-weeks]. 3. **Historical Context**: - The outbreak has escalated rapidly, with a notable increase of **27 cases** reported between December 18 and December 22, indicating a troubling trend in infection rates [https://diz.news/measles-outbreaks-escalate-in-south-carolina-arizona-and-utah]. ### Supporting Data on Measles Cases - **Measles Cases Timeline**: - December 17: Initial reports indicated a rise in cases, with **27 new infections** confirmed [https://www.timesnownews.com/health/measles-spreading-again-outbreaks-worsen-in-south-carolina-arizona-and-utah-article-153308923]. - December 19: Total cases reached **144**, with an additional **9 cases** reported since the last update [https://srnnews.com/measles-cases-in-south-carolina-rise-by-9-to-144-state-health-department-says]. - December 23: Current total stands at **153**, with ongoing monitoring and vaccination efforts [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/headlines/3737266-diverse-headlines-from-measles-outbreaks-to-space-missions]. ### Conclusion: Urgent Call for Vaccination The measles outbreak in South Carolina is a pressing public health issue that has seen a **rapid increase in cases** over the past week. 1. **Key Findings**: - The total number of cases has surged to **153**, with health officials warning that the outbreak could persist for weeks. - Vaccination is being strongly recommended to prevent further spread, especially during the holiday season. 2. **Next Steps**: - Residents are urged to ensure their vaccinations are up to date. - Continued monitoring and public health messaging will be crucial in managing this outbreak effectively [https://www.abccolumbia.com/2025/12/19/sc-measles-cases-grow-to-over-140]. In summary, the situation in South Carolina underscores the importance of vaccination and public health preparedness in combating infectious diseases like measles.