DPH Confirms Measles in Upstate Resident
Thursday, Sep 19, 2024
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.
Tags
DPH Confirms Measles in Upstate Resident
View AllThursday, Sep 19, 2024
DPH Recognizes World Alzheimer’s Day by Focusing on Risk Reduction and Support
Read Full ArticleFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 19, 2024COLUMBIA, S.C. – In honor of World Alzheimer’s Day, the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) encourages residents to learn more about risk-reduction methods and show support for those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia.
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on September 21 each year and is part of World Alzheimer’s Month.
-
Thursday, Sep 19, 2024
DPH Confirms Measles in Upstate Resident
Read Full ArticleFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 19, 2024COLUMBIA, 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.
-
Wednesday, Sep 18, 2024
Rabid Fox Confirmed in Spartanburg County; One Pet Exposed
Read Full ArticleFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 18, 2024COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a fox found near Alverson and Cannon Ford roads in Inman, 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.
-
Tuesday, Sep 17, 2024
DPH Highlights Success Stories for Newborn Screening Awareness Month
Read Full ArticleFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 17, 2024COLUMBIA, S.C. – September is Newborn Screening Awareness Month, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is celebrating the successes of its Newborn Screening Program and highlighting stories of infants who have benefitted from screening and early diagnosis.