South Carolina’s measles outbreak, the nation’s worst in over 35 years, has officially concluded after 42 days with no new cases. This significant outbreak, which sickened 997 people and hospitalized at least 21, was largely contained to one county through swift public health interventions and community cooperation. The outbreak spurred a notable increase in measles vaccinations across the state, with nearly 82,000 doses administered between October and March, a 30% rise from the previous year. While the state health department maintains vigilance due to ongoing national measles spread and the potential for international reintroductions, the conclusion of this particular outbreak offers a moment of relief.
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South Carolina is currently battling a measles outbreak that has affected at least 789 individuals, surpassing a previous outbreak in West Texas. The majority of cases are concentrated in Spartanburg County, primarily among unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status, with 89 new cases confirmed since Friday. The outbreak has led to the quarantine of 557 people and has spread to neighboring states, including North Carolina, where 14 cases have been reported. This situation is particularly concerning due to low vaccination rates in certain communities and schools, increasing the risk of further spread and potentially jeopardizing the U.S.’s measles elimination status.
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A Department of Labor review of The Rock Church’s C-3 Coffee Shop in Conway, South Carolina, found violations of child labor laws. The investigation was initiated following a complaint about a homeschooled student under 16 working during school hours, which is prohibited by federal regulations. Labor officials also raised concerns regarding the coffee shop’s practice of directing customer tips to the church, rather than distributing them to employees. As a result of the review, the church has implemented new policies, including scheduling changes for underage workers and renaming the tip jar a donation jar.
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John Q. Hosedrinker