As measles cases rise in Upstate, Midlands doctor discusses long-term effects, importance of vaccine

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) –This week, the South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed five new cases of the measles across Spartanburg County.

Sixteen total cases of the measles have been reported in the Upstate since January — with 12 of those related to the ongoing outbreak.

Dr. Anna-Kathryn Burch, Division Director at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital of the Midlands for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, says the highly contagious virus could find its way to the Midlands.

“Unfortunately, it is probably one of the most contagious viruses or infections in the world. So for instance, if someone has the measles and they are in a room with 10 people who do not have immunity, nine out of those 10 individuals will contract the measles — just because they were in the same room with someone with active measles,” says Dr. Burch.

Symptoms include runny nose, coughing, red eyes, fever, and a full-body rash — starting on the face.

Contracting the illness could have long term effects — causing a person to become temporarily immuno-compromised, says Dr. Burch — meaning they’re more susceptible to infection for the next several months up to a year  until their body regenerates those antibodies.

“Unfortunately, it’s got to run its course. So most individuals who get the measles will get better, but there’s always the risk of having those infections after the measles of getting something like encephalitis that can lead you with permanent damage, or you having encephalitis up to 10 years later after getting the measles. Those are the big risks when you get the measles. So it’s more than just a fever and a rash,” she says.

And since there’s no antiviral medication for the measles, only symptom management, doctors find vaccination to still be the best option — with the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine being 97% effective against the measles after the second required dose — and safe for children one year old or older.

According to Dr. Burch, the vaccine can be taken as early as six-months-old for babies who live in counties like Greenville and Spartanburg with an ongoing outbreak.

“Making sure that you get your child as protected as possible, would be my biggest message that I would like to get out there today!” says Dr. Burch, adding its always best to discuss the vaccine or any concerns you may with your primary care physician.