FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 19, 2024
COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in an Upstate resident who was recently aboard an international flight.
DPH was notified by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) on Sept. 12 of South Carolina residents who were on an international flight with a person who had measles. The Upstate resident, who was among those exposed on the flight, is now confirmed to have measles from test results from DPH’s public health laboratory Monday, Sept. 16.
DPH has conducted a contact investigation and is in the process of notifying people who may have been exposed in a health care setting. No other possible exposures in the community have been identified.
“Measles is a highly contagious and serious disease caused by a virus that affects the respiratory tract,” said Dr. Linda Bell, DPH’s state epidemiologist. “The unexpected exposure to the many passengers on the involved flight is the reason that maintaining high vaccination coverage is crucial. It is proven that the best way to prevent measles is by vaccination. I strongly encourage that everyone makes sure that they stay up to date with all recommended vaccinations.”
Measles virus spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles infection can cause serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. The initial symptoms of measles include fever, cough and runny nose. These symptoms are followed by a rash, which usually lasts five or six days. Although most people recover, up to 20% of those who have measles require hospitalization.
Measles vaccination, usually given as a Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, is recommended for all children, who should receive two doses of MMR vaccine. The first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second at 4 to 6 years of age.
Although measles is now uncommon in the United States, cases are increasing in other parts of the world and importations have resulted in large U.S. outbreaks in recent years. Anyone traveling outside the U.S. should consult with a health care provider about immunization recommendations. If traveling to a country where measles is common, children 6 to 12 months should get an early dose of MMR vaccine, and for all ages, it is important to make sure all vaccinations are up to date.
For more information about measles, visit DPH website or CDC website.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 17, 2025
Mosquito management and bite prevention are key to limiting exposure to West Nile Virus.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — Residents can help the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) track West Nile virus this spring, summer and fall by taking steps to safely submit certain species of dead birds for lab testing.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 12, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. ― The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging pet owners to visit free or low-cost rabies vaccination clinics being offered by several veterinary partners in March and April.
Each spring, DPH encourages pet owners to take their pets to a veterinarian for routine care and vaccinations. The agency partners with various veterinarians to help make rabies vaccines easily accessible.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 10, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a raccoon found near Woodland Shores Road and Saltgrass Pointe Drive in Charleston, S.C., has tested positive for rabies. No people are known to have been exposed at this time. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Mar. 10, 2025
COLUMBIA, S.C. – As National Patient Safety Week is observed March 9-15, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) would like to thank its Healthcare Quality staff for the fundamental role they play in protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents across the state.