Children in South Carolina face brain swelling after measles outbreak

State officials say some South Carolina children with measles have developed encephalitis, and the state has recorded 876 cases.

South Carolina health officials reported that some children infected in the state's recent measles outbreak have developed encephalitis, an inflammatory swelling of the brain. State epidemiologist Dr. Linda Bell said the complication can lead to seizures, developmental delays or death and that any such case can have long-term consequences. The state has recorded 876 measles cases since October, and officials also reported hospitalizations and a recent increase in vaccinations. Key facts: - Some children with measles have developed encephalitis, according to the state epidemiologist. - South Carolina has reported 876 cases since October, including 233 children under five, 555 aged 5–17, and 19 hospitalizations. - Officials said about 95% of cases are in unvaccinated people; health officials noted a strong increase in vaccinations last month. - Among children who develop measles encephalitis, about 10–15% die, as reported by Wired. Summary: The outbreak has produced cases of encephalitis and multiple hospitalizations among children, and most cases have been reported in unvaccinated individuals. Undetermined at this time.