South Carolina measles outbreak surpasses West Texas outbreak

State health officials reported 789 measles cases in South Carolina, making it the largest U.S. outbreak in nearly 30 years; most cases are among unvaccinated people and at least 18 people have been hospitalized.

State health officials reported that South Carolina's measles outbreak has reached 789 confirmed cases. The outbreak has grown quickly in recent days and is now the largest in the United States in nearly 30 years. Officials say most cases are close contacts of known infections and that measles is circulating in the community. The outbreak is centered in Spartanburg County. Key details: - The South Carolina Department of Health reported 789 confirmed cases, an increase of 89 in the last four days. - Of those cases, 695 are unvaccinated, 14 are partially vaccinated, 20 are fully vaccinated, and 60 have unknown vaccination status. - There are 557 people in quarantine and 20 in isolation; the latest quarantine end date reported is February 19. - At least 18 people, including adults and children, have required hospitalization for complications. Summary: The outbreak has surpassed the West Texas cluster from last year and has prompted national attention because of its size. In April, U.S. officials will meet with the Pan American Health Organization to review whether the country's measles elimination status has been affected.