The Alarming Reality of Measles in South Carolina: Brain Swelling in Children
In a concerning development, the ongoing measles outbreak in South Carolina has taken a turn for the worse, with some children experiencing a severe complication known as encephalitis, or brain swelling. This alarming news was shared by state epidemiologist Linda Bell, who revealed that the situation is far from under control.
The outbreak, which began in October, has seen a rapid surge in cases, with a total of 876 reported as of February 3rd. This spike in infections is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of declining vaccination rates across the country. The United States witnessed over 2,267 cases in 2025, the highest in three decades, and this year's outbreak in South Carolina could signal another challenging year ahead.
Encephalitis, a rare yet devastating complication of measles, can lead to convulsions and cause permanent damage, such as deafness or intellectual disabilities in children. It typically occurs within a month of the initial measles infection and can result from either the virus infecting the brain directly or an immune reaction causing inflammation. Among children who develop measles encephalitis, the mortality rate is a staggering 10 to 15 percent.
While the exact number of children affected by this severe complication in South Carolina remains unknown, the state's reporting laws do not require disclosure of measles hospitalizations and complications. However, the Department of Public Health is aware of 19 measles-related hospitalizations, including cases of pneumonia, which is a leading cause of death for children with measles.
"We don't comment on individual outcomes," Bell explained to reporters, "but inflammation of the brain, or encephalitis, is a well-known complication of measles. Any inflammation in the brain can have long-term consequences, including developmental delays and irreversible damage to the neurological system."
Bell also highlighted the risks for pregnant women exposed to the virus, who may require immune globulin administration to provide temporary protection against measles. Measles exposure during pregnancy can lead to preterm birth or miscarriage.
Additionally, a rarer type of brain swelling called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) can occur years after a measles infection. In a tragic case reported by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, a school-age child succumbed to SSPE, having originally contracted measles as an infant before being old enough for the vaccine. SSPE typically manifests seven to ten years after the initial measles infection, and an estimated two in 10,000 individuals who contract measles eventually develop this condition.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles and its associated complications. Encouragingly, South Carolina has seen a significant increase in MMR vaccine doses administered this January compared to the same period last year, with a 72 percent rise statewide and a remarkable 162 percent increase in Spartanburg County, the epicenter of the outbreak.
"January was the best month for measles vaccination during the outbreak," Bell noted. This surge in vaccination rates is a positive step towards containing the outbreak and protecting the community, especially vulnerable children and pregnant women.
But here's where it gets controversial: With the outbreak still ongoing, the question arises - are we doing enough to ensure widespread vaccination and prevent future outbreaks? And this is the part most people miss - the impact of these complications can be lifelong, affecting not just the individual but also their families and communities. So, what can we do to ensure better vaccine uptake and protect our most vulnerable populations? These are questions we must ask ourselves as we navigate this public health crisis.
