Thursday, February 5, 2026-South Carolina health officials are sounding the alarm as a major measles outbreak continues to spread across the state — particularly affecting children — with rare but serious complications emerging, including brain swelling (encephalitis). The state has confirmed hundreds of measles cases, with children making up the vast majority of infections. Some of these young patients have developed encephalitis, a dangerous inflammation of the brain that can lead to seizures, long‑term neurological damage, or even death. State epidemiologists stress that encephalitis is a known but serious complication of measles and poses a clear danger to unvaccinated children.
At least 19 people have been hospitalized due to measles complications in South Carolina, including cases of brain swelling and pneumonia — another severe outcome of the virus. Health officials have highlighted that any inflammation of the brain in measles patients can carry lasting consequences, such as developmental delays or irreversible neurological harm. The exact number of children affected by encephalitis has not been publicly disclosed, but the confirmed hospitalizations underscore the seriousness of the outbreak.
The outbreak — which began late last year and has surged sharply since January — is largely occurring in communities with low vaccination coverage. Public health leaders attribute the spread to declines in measles‑mumps‑rubella (MMR) vaccination rates, noting that the state’s immunization levels remain below what’s needed to prevent rapid transmission. In response, medical centers across South Carolina have strengthened infection‑control measures, and state officials are urging all eligible residents to get vaccinated immediately to protect children and prevent further severe complications.
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