Officials in the United States announced that the measles outbreak in South Carolina had grown to 185 cases, an increase of nine since earlier this week. In Friday's update, state officials specified that 172 of the cases involved patients who had not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is designed to protect against infection.

Four other cases involved patients who were partially vaccinated, four had an unknown vaccination status, and another four cases were still under investigation. Only one of the infections involved a fully vaccinated person. The outbreak has sparked renewed concerns about vaccine hesitancy, a growing global challenge that threatens to undermine decades of progress in eradicating preventable diseases.

Measles, a highly infectious and sometimes deadly virus, was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000 thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. However, in recent years, declining vaccination rates have led to resurgences in several countries, including the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) has repeatedly warned about the dangers of vaccine hesitancy, citing it as one of the top ten threats to global health.

The MMR vaccine has been a subject of controversy in some communities, despite overwhelming scientific evidence supporting its safety and efficacy. The medical community has reached a consensus that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective. Misinformation and disinformation campaigns, often spread through social media, have contributed to unfounded fears about vaccines, leading some parents to delay or refuse vaccination for their children. This not only puts unvaccinated children at risk but also threatens herd immunity, which protects vulnerable populations who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and individuals with compromised immune systems.

The South Carolina outbreak highlights the importance of public health education and outreach to address vaccine hesitancy and promote informed decision-making. Health officials are urging residents to ensure they and their children are fully vaccinated against measles and other preventable diseases. The state is also working to trace contacts of infected individuals to contain the spread of the virus. Globally, measles outbreaks continue to pose a significant threat, particularly in regions with low vaccination coverage and weak healthcare systems. The WHO and other international organizations are working to support vaccination efforts worldwide and combat the spread of misinformation about vaccines.