South Carolina measles outbreak nears 800 cases

South Carolina reports 789 measles cases and 557 people in quarantine; most reported cases are among unvaccinated children.

South Carolina is reporting a record measles outbreak that has reached 789 confirmed cases. The outbreak began in September and has been concentrated in the Upstate region. Nearly 90 percent of those reported sick are children under 17, and students at nearly two dozen schools have been quarantined. State health officials say 557 people remain in quarantine until Feb. 19, and 20 people are in isolation. Key facts: - State health officials reported 89 new cases since Friday, bringing the total to 789. - Officials report 557 people in quarantine until Feb. 19 and 20 people in isolation. - About 90% of reported cases are among children under 17, and most cases (695) involve unvaccinated individuals. - The United States reached a 12-month spread milestone on Jan. 20 that could affect measles elimination status; federal officials said it is too soon to determine any change. Summary: The outbreak has become the largest U.S. measles spread since elimination was declared and has led to widespread quarantine measures in the affected region. Whether the United States will lose its measles elimination status is undetermined at this time.