A growing outbreak in South Carolina and rising cases in North Carolina prompt new regional precautions
By BC News Staff Writer
Health officials in both North Carolina and South Carolina are urging residents to take immediate precautions as measles cases continue to rise across the region. With South Carolina experiencing the nation’s largest active outbreak and North Carolina confirming additional cases since December, hospitals and public health agencies are expanding resources to help residents respond safely.
South Carolina remains the center of the regional surge, with nearly 1,000 confirmed cases tied to an Upstate cluster. State health leaders report ongoing quarantines and new exposure sites, particularly in Spartanburg County, which borders western North Carolina. The outbreak has prompted increased surveillance and coordination with neighboring states.
North Carolina has confirmed 22 measles cases since late December, with most involving unvaccinated children and teens. New exposure sites have been identified in Wake, Durham, and Orange counties. Health officials warn that the proximity to South Carolina’s outbreak continues to elevate risk for residents across the border.
To support the public during this surge, especially those living in communities that regularly travel between the two states – McLeod Health has established the McLeod Health On-Call-Measles-Line at 843.777.7070
Residents are urged to call the line before arriving at any McLeod hospital, urgent care center, or doctor’s office if they believe they have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms. Calling ahead allows care teams to prepare appropriate isolation precautions to protect other patients, visitors, and healthcare workers.
A McLeod nurse will review symptoms, confirm possible exposure dates, and direct callers to the most appropriate McLeod facility based on their location. The nurse will also notify the receiving facility so staff can greet the patient safely and implement necessary precautions. Patients are asked to wear a mask upon arrival.
More information is available at: McLeod Health
Public health officials in both states continue to emphasize early reporting, vaccination, and controlled entry into healthcare facilities as key steps in slowing the spread of measles across the Carolinas.
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