Measles Makes a Comeback in South Carolina

The Problem

• Location: Spartanburg County, South Carolina
• Cases: Over 200 in recent months, and growing
• Cause: Low vaccination rates

Origins and Spread

• Start: Ukrainian immigrant community
• Reason for Low Vaccination Rates: Past issues with vaccines in Ukraine
• Areas Affected: Schools, churches, public places

Impact on Children

• Most Cases: Unvaccinated children
• Symptoms: High fevers, rashes
• Health Risks: Severe illness

Efforts to Contain the Outbreak

• Contact Tracing: Identifying and isolating cases
• Vaccination Clinics: Setting up clinics for quick access
• Challenges: Need for more help and resources

Public Response

• Some Parents: Getting kids vaccinated after seeing the severity
• Others: Still refusing vaccination, even after their kids get sick

National Implications

• US Cases: Highest since the 1990s
• Risk: Losing measles-free status
• Consequence: More outbreaks and more people getting sick

Expert Advice

• Best Solution: Vaccination
• Barriers: Lack of healthcare access, false information online
• Outlook: Outbreak will continue until vaccination rates increase