A New Measles Outbreak is rapidly expanding in parts of the United States, with South Carolina and communities along the Utah–Arizona border reporting sharp increases in cases. Health officials say hundreds of residents are now under quarantine as the virus continues to spread.
South Carolina Reports 111 Cases Linked to Church Exposure
Between Friday and Tuesday, South Carolina confirmed 27 new measles cases in an outbreak centered in northwestern Spartanburg County. In just two months, 111 people have fallen ill with measles — a virus that is preventable with routine vaccination.
More than 250 people, including students from nine local elementary, middle, and high schools, are currently in quarantine. Some have been required to quarantine twice since the outbreak began in October.
Most of the state’s new infections have been traced to Way of Truth Church in Inman. State epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell said church leaders have been “very helpful” as officials work to contain further spread.
Dr. Bell added: “We are faced with ongoing transmission that we anticipate will go on for many more weeks, at least in our state.”
Utah–Arizona Border Towns Hit Hard as Outbreak Grows
In the Southwest, the outbreak has escalated quickly since August.
- Mohave County, Arizona has confirmed 172 measles cases.
- Southwest Utah Public Health Department has reported 82 cases.
The border communities of Colorado City, Arizona, and Hildale, Utah, are experiencing the highest transmission levels. Overall, Utah has documented 115 cases this year, while Arizona has confirmed 176.
Nearly 2,000 Measles Cases Nationwide
Nationally, the measles case count is approaching 2,000, a concerning milestone for a disease the United States declared eliminated in 2000 due to widespread childhood vaccination.
Last month, Canada and the broader Americas region lost their measles elimination status after continuous local transmission. Experts warn the United States is at risk of losing its designation if sustained spread continues for a full year.
A large outbreak across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma earlier this year sickened almost 900 people, making 2025 the country’s worst measles year in more than three decades.
According to the CDC:
- All but eight U.S. states have reported at least one case this year.
- 47 outbreaks have been confirmed in 2025, compared to 16 in 2024.
- Three people, including two Texas schoolchildren, have died.
Vaccination Rates Declining Nationwide
The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella) offers 97% protection after two doses and is required for most U.S. schoolchildren. However, vaccination rates have slipped as more parents delay or decline recommended vaccinations — a trend experts say is fueling the New Measles Outbreak.
Public health officials continue urging families to stay up to date on childhood immunizations to prevent further spread.
