Measles Fact Sheet

This guide is intended to provide general information only. For specific questions about your child’s health, please contact your pediatrician.

Revised January 2026 for Upstate SC Residents

1. What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through the air when someone breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It can lead to serious complications, especially in babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Even though measles was once eliminated in the U.S., outbreaks occur when the virus is introduced into communities with under-immunized people. Upstate SC is currently experiencing an outbreak, which started in Oct, 2025. As of Jan 9, 2026 total cases associated with the outbreak have risen to 310, and cases are expected to continue to rise.

2. How does it spread?

Through contact with droplets on surfaces or by airborne spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes
The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for up to 2 hours
People are contagious before symptoms appear
The incubation period of measles from contact to symptoms is long, from 7 to 21 days after exposure
Close contact or being in the same enclosed indoor space increases risk

3. Who is most at risk?

Babies and toddlers (before vaccination)
Pregnant women
People who are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated
Anyone with a weakened immune system

4. Symptoms to Watch for:

High fever (often > 101°F)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Tiny white spots in the mouth
Red, blotchy rash (starts on the face/neck, then spreads downward)

Note: Call and inform your medical office of fever and rash before visiting so they can prepare for your arrival. When on the call, please inform the medical team if there is a known or suspected measles exposure

5. How to protect your child?

Vaccination remains the best protection
- Early dose: 6-11 months
  - During a measles outbreak, an early does of MMR is indicated for children 6-11 months. This dose does not count toward the recommended childhood MRR doeses.
- Dose 1: 12-15 months
- Dose 2: 4-6 years
- Fully vaccinated children do not need to quarantine if exposed.
- Unvaccinated children need to quarantine for 21 days after every new exposure.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis can be given within 72 hrs. Please discuss with your provider.
Other ways to reduce risk:
- Avoid crowded indoor spaces during outbreaks
- Wash hands frequently and cover coughs/sneezes
- Avoid sharing cups and utensils
- Keep kids home if sick, even with mild symptoms
- Limit contact with newborns, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals if your child is sick or exposed
- Monitor for symptoms and call our office before visiting if your child has a fever, cough, and rash

Note: Measles is highly contagious, and while these steps can reduce risk, vaccination remains the best protection for your child and the community.

6. What should I do next?

Check your child’s vaccine records (Available on the Healow app and patient portal found on our website www.parksidepediatrics.com).
Talk to your pediatrician if you’re unsure.
Follow DPH guidance if you have been exposed. You will be contacted.
If you think your child has measles, stay home. Call us and we will determine the best care plan to assess your child.
Call our office before visiting if your child has a fever, cough, and rash.
Wear a mask in our office (if able) if you (or your child) have a fever and a cough.