ANKARA

Measles cases in South Carolina surged Tuesday after state health officials reported at least 88 new infections, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 646.

The South Carolina Department of Public Health said 538 people are currently in quarantine, while 33 others are in isolation as authorities work to contain the outbreak.

At least 15 elementary, middle and high schools have students in quarantine. Clemson University and Anderson University together reported 88 students in quarantine.

The outbreak comes amid a broader rise in measles cases across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 2,242 measles cases were reported nationwide across 44 states last year, the highest annual total in more than three decades. So far in 2026, 171 cases have been reported in nine states.

Vaccination rates in the country continue to lag behind levels needed for community immunity in many areas. Public health officials say measles vaccination coverage has declined from pre-pandemic levels and has not fully recovered, contributing to increased transmission and outbreaks.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through the air and can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation and death, particularly among young children.

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine, an estimated 95,000 people -- mostly children under the age of 5 -- died from measles in 2024, according to the World Health Organization.

Health authorities continue to stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles infection and outbreaks, especially in low-income and conflict-affected countries where immunization coverage is weak.