The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is reinforcing its national response to rising measles cases, working closely with state health departments in South Carolina and North Carolina to contain outbreaks. This renewed effort comes as measles cases continue to emerge across the country, prompting a surge in support for local public health officials. The CDC’s commitment to protecting communities nationwide is underscored by the deployment of specialized teams and a comprehensive suite of resources designed to quickly identify, track, and mitigate the spread of this highly contagious disease.
At the request of South Carolina officials, CDC disease detectives from the agency’s Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) are already on the ground, assisting with outbreak response activities. These experts will analyze data from both South Carolina and North Carolina, collaborating with state and local partners to understand transmission patterns and implement targeted prevention strategies. The CDC’s response is focused on bolstering containment efforts and ensuring communities have the tools they need to protect themselves, particularly through vaccination.
Measles, a highly contagious viral illness, can lead to serious complications, especially in young children. While the U.S. Had been declared measles-free in 2000, imported cases and declining vaccination rates have contributed to a resurgence in recent years. Understanding the current landscape of measles outbreaks and the factors driving their spread is crucial for effective public health intervention. The CDC’s work with states like South Carolina and North Carolina is a critical step in preventing further transmission and protecting vulnerable populations.
Comprehensive Support for State and Local Partners
The CDC is providing a wide range of resources to support state and local health departments in their measles response efforts. These resources include the assignment of experienced technical and epidemiologic experts, with a CDC epidemiologist already embedded within the South Carolina Department of Public Health. This embedded support allows for real-time collaboration and rapid response to evolving needs.
Beyond personnel, the CDC is offering advanced laboratory testing and genomic sequencing to rapidly identify and track cases, enabling a more precise understanding of outbreak dynamics. Robust data analysis, outbreak modeling, and expansion of wastewater testing are also being utilized to assess the situation in real-time. The agency is also providing direct support for measles case classification and the development of effective mitigation strategies.
Crucially, the CDC is making vaccines available upon request to support rapid response efforts, recognizing that vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing measles. Expert guidance on infection prevention, control, and post-exposure prophylaxis is also being provided, alongside comprehensive educational resources, community outreach materials, and strategic risk communication support. Financial assistance is available to support response activities, and ongoing coordination with state and local partners, including resources from the CDC Foundation, ensures evolving needs are met.
Emphasis on Trust and Collaboration
Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya recently underscored the importance of trust and collaboration in the agency’s response. Speaking during a national webinar with over 2,000 public health partners, Bhattacharya emphasized that “Trust is the foundation of public health, earned through openness, honesty, and guided by the best available evidence.” He assured partners that the CDC is listening and is prepared to offer a wide range of tools, including vaccine supplies, to support state and local efforts.
Protecting communities from measles requires a coordinated effort. https://t.co/q9q9q9q9q9
— CDC (@CDCgov) March 11, 2026
Bhattacharya also shared a public video message outlining the CDC’s comprehensive measles response, highlighting the agency’s surge of resources and continued emphasis on the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The Importance of Vaccination
The CDC continues to emphasize that the benefits of the MMR vaccine far outweigh the risks, and that serious reactions are extremely rare. Vaccination substantially reduces the likelihood of infection and limits outbreak spread, and high vaccination coverage protects infants and others who cannot be vaccinated. These points are central to the CDC’s messaging as it works to increase vaccine confidence and uptake.
The agency’s ongoing efforts are informed by the understanding that measles is preventable through vaccination. By working collaboratively with state and local partners, and by providing the necessary resources and support, the CDC aims to protect communities and prevent the further spread of this dangerous disease. The CDC’s commitment to transparency and evidence-based decision-making is paramount in building public trust and ensuring the effectiveness of its response.
The CDC remains fully engaged in protecting the nation’s health and will continue providing transparent updates and coordinated support to help ensure communities have the tools they need to prevent and contain measles. The agency will provide further updates as the situation evolves and latest information becomes available.
The next scheduled update from the CDC regarding the national measles response is anticipated in early April, following a review of data from ongoing outbreak investigations. For the latest information and guidance on measles, please visit the CDC’s measles website.
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