Media Tip Sheet: Measles Outbreak in South Carolina Surpasses West Texas, Spreads Across State Lines


January 27, 2026

A rapidly growing measles outbreak in South Carolina has now sickened at least 789 people — surpassing the 2025 West Texas outbreak and making it one of the largest U.S. measles outbreaks in decades.

Health officials confirmed 89 new cases since Friday alone, signaling the outbreak is far from contained. The majority of cases are centered in Spartanburg County and involve people who were unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status. More than 550 people are currently under 21-day quarantine, most of them children and teenagers.

Faculty experts at the George Washington University are available to offer insight about measles and getting vaccinated. To schedule an interview with an expert, please contact Katelyn Deckelbaum, katelyn [dot] deckelbaumatgwu [dot] edu (katelyn[dot]deckelbaum[at]gwu[dot]edu).

Jose Lucar is an associate professor of infectious diseases at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Maria Elena Ruiz is an associate professor of medicine and an infectious disease expert at the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Elizabeth Choma is a pediatric nurse practitioner and clinical assistant professor at the GW School of Nursing.

Emily Smith, is an associate professor of global health and an expert in infectious diseases and epidemiology, at the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health.

Kelly Gebo is the dean of the GW Milken Institute School of Public Health. An infectious disease physician and epidemiologist, Dr. Gebo’s research has focused on disparities in access to care and outcomes among people affected by HIV, COVID-19, and other infectious diseases.

-GW-