With baby Arthur too young for the measles vaccine and another child due in June, the Otwell family became increasingly concerned as a highly contagious measles outbreak spread in South Carolina, even affecting routine grocery visits.
John Otwell said they often visited a Costco store flagged by health authorities for possible exposure. “A lot of people think it’s just a cold. It’s not,” he said.
By Arthur’s nine-month checkup, the outbreak had become the worst in the US in over 35 years, surpassing last year’s Texas outbreak. Under state guidance, Arthur received an early dose of the MMR vaccine, but the couple’s unborn child will not be eligible until at least six months of age.
Doctors warn infants too young for vaccination are extremely vulnerable to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling and death. Protection depends on herd immunity, requiring at least 95% vaccination coverage, but rates have dropped below that in several areas, including Spartanburg County, the epicenter.
“Babies become sitting ducks,” said pediatrician Dr Deborah Greenhouse.
Meanwhile, vaccination is increasingly framed by some policymakers as a matter of personal choice. Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has pushed major changes in vaccine policy, while several states, including South Carolina, consider bills that could weaken vaccination requirements.
South Carolina has reported about 1,000 measles cases, though the outbreak has slowed. Nationwide, 17 outbreaks have been recorded this year, with 1,671 cases already in early 2026.
Doctors are offering early MMR doses for infants, but lack of detailed reporting on infant cases remains a concern.
Experts warn declining vaccination rates could lead to a return of preventable diseases, while some parents continue to vaccinate early to protect their children and others.
