Active Public Health Outbreaks: South Carolina
Current Status (November 30, 2025): South Carolina is currently managing a significant localized measles outbreak in the Upstate region, which remains the primary public health priority. While respiratory virus activity remains below baseline levels for this time of year, RSV cases are rising. Additionally, a Spartanburg-based food manufacturer is the source of a nationwide Listeria outbreak, though no illnesses have been confirmed within the state itself.
CRITICAL ALERT: Measles Outbreak (Upstate)
Updated: Nov 28, 2025The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is actively responding to a rapidly expanding measles outbreak centered in Spartanburg County. As of late November, the case count has risen to 65 confirmed cases.
- Primary Location: Spartanburg County (Upstate Region).
- Exposure Sites: Lyman Elementary, Boiling Springs Middle, D.R. Hill Middle, and a local Costco.
- Quarantine: Over 140 individuals are currently in quarantine.
Vaccination Status of Confirmed Cases
Data Source: SC DPH Surveillance
Foodborne Illness Alerts
Listeria Outbreak (Yu Shang Food)
A massive recall (72,000+ lbs) of ready-to-eat meat products from Spartanburg-based Yu Shang Food Inc. is linked to a multi-state outbreak.
*While the source is local to SC, confirmed illnesses are currently in CA, IL, NY, and NJ.
National E. Coli Context
Regarding the recent national E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald's onions:
Respiratory Disease Surveillance (Week 47)
| Virus | Activity Level | Trend | Key Metric |
|---|---|---|---|
| Influenza (Flu) | Low | Stable | 3.0% ILI Visits (Below Baseline) |
| COVID-19 | Low | Stable | Low Hospital Admissions |
| RSV | Moderate | Increasing ? | Rising in Southeast Region |
Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Significant rise in cases observed throughout 2025 (180+ cases reported mid-year), marking a sharp increase from 2024 levels. Vaccination (Tdap) remains the primary recommendation.
West Nile Virus
4 confirmed human cases reported in South Carolina for the 2025 season. Mosquito activity is decreasing with cooler weather, but precautions are still advised in warmer coastal areas.