South Carolina's months long measles outbreak has gradually plateaued through the course of March, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) reported no new measles cases in its March 20 update.
The last time DPH reported no new measles cases in an update was Nov. 4, or about a month into the outbreak.
Just two individuals remain in quarantine with the latest set end date of March 28. As disease spread dwindles and fewer people remain in quarantine, the state stayed hovering around 1,000 cases in the outbreak with a total of 997 infected people.
DPH reported 671 new cases through January, 138 new cases through February and 12 new cases so far through March, according to an analysis by South Carolina Public Radio.
In media briefings, DPH and state epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell have expressed sentiments of hope in regard to the slowing spread, but Bell and the agency have said the outbreak will be treated with the same urgency until it is officially declared over.
A 42-day period without a new case is needed before the state can declare the end of the outbreak — it matches two full 21-day incubation periods.
Still, Bell has said a potential surge in cases could follow the extended travel and gatherings associated with spring break.
DPH's next case update will be released Tuesday, March 31.
