The measles outbreak in South Carolina could soon be coming to an end. The state Department of Public Health (DPH) is set to release an update on cases Tuesday which have remained at 997 since March 17.
If no new infections are reported, this would be the seventh consecutive update with zero additional illnesses. And if the trend continues, state health officials say the last day of the outbreak would be April 26. A period of 42 days, or double the number for an incubation period (21), with no new cases is required to declare an end to a measles outbreak.
South Carolina's measles outbreak is the largest the U.S. has seen in decades and while the state's case spread has slowed, many states are still plagued by the virus. With 17 outbreaks across the country this year and nearly 50 last year, the nation is on the verge of losing its status as a country that has eliminated measles.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 95% of a community must be vaccinated to prevent measles outbreaks. But dropping vaccination rates have eroded protection in South Carolina and across the nation. In Spartanburg County, the outbreak's epicenter, less than 90% of students have gotten required vaccines.
As the state anticipates a potential end to the outbreak, DPH continues to remind South Carolinians that vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and stop this outbreak. Vaccines are available at many primary care provider offices and pharmacies, as well as DPH Health Departments.