A case of measles has been confirmed in Georgetown County.
A press release from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control says DHEC received a report of a confirmed case of measles in a resident of Georgetown County on Friday.
DHEC has started an investigation and is notifying people who may have been exposed, the release also says.
According to the release, DHEC has notified healthcare providers to be on alert for patients with signs and symptoms of measles. Providers should immediately report suspected cases of measles to their regional public health office.
This is the second confirmed case of measles in South Carolina since 1990, DHEC says. The previous case was in Charleston in 1997.
“Measles is an acute viral respiratory illness and is highly contagious,” says Dr. Linda Bell, DHEC’s state epidemiologist. “It is critical that healthcare providers and the public be aware of the symptoms associated with this disease. The best way to prevent measles is by vaccination. I strongly encourage everyone to review their immunization records and make sure there are no other immunizations you need.”
The measles virus is highly contagious and spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing.
DHEC also adds the best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. According to the release, children should receive two doses of MMR vaccine: the first at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second at 4 to 6 years of age. Children 6 to 12 months should get an early dose of MMR vaccine if they are traveling to a country where measles is common.
