Measles Outbreak Strains Doctors in South Carolina

Spartanburg sees largest U.S. measles outbreak in over 30 years as vaccine hesitancy fuels spread

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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Spartanburg, South Carolina has become the epicenter of the largest measles outbreak in the United States in over three decades. Doctors at Parkside Pediatrics are now conducting triage in the parking lot to prevent the highly contagious virus from spreading within the clinic's waiting rooms, particularly to infants too young to be vaccinated. The outbreak is driven by declining vaccination rates in the area, with some local schools reporting rates below 20%. Experts suggest that policies and rhetoric questioning vaccine safety have contributed to the problem, further undermining public trust in life-saving immunizations.

Why it matters

The measles outbreak in Spartanburg highlights the growing divide between public health experts and a segment of the population that is increasingly skeptical of vaccines. This crisis puts vulnerable populations, such as infants and those with weakened immune systems, at risk and strains the healthcare system. Addressing the root causes of vaccine hesitancy is crucial to preventing the resurgence of other vaccine-preventable diseases.

The details

At Parkside Pediatrics, doctors have initiated outdoor triage to prevent the spread of measles within the clinic. Since early October, the clinic has treated approximately 50 measles patients, an unprecedented number. The outbreak is particularly acute in areas with low vaccination rates, with only 89% of students in Spartanburg County up-to-date on their shots, falling short of the 95% threshold recommended by public health experts. Some local schools report vaccination rates below 20%. This decline is fueled by a complex mix of factors, including misinformation and a growing belief in 'medical freedom'.

  • In early October, Parkside Pediatrics began treating approximately 50 measles patients.
  • In December, Dr. Justin Moll initiated outdoor triage at Parkside Pediatrics to prevent the spread of measles within the clinic.

The players

Parkside Pediatrics

A pediatric clinic in Spartanburg, South Carolina that has been treating a large number of measles patients during the current outbreak.

Dr. Justin Moll

A doctor at Parkside Pediatrics who initiated outdoor triage to prevent the spread of measles within the clinic.

Nathan Heffington

A nurse practitioner at Parkside Pediatrics who has been working to address vaccine hesitancy and provide accurate information to patients.

Kathleen Black

A Spartanburg resident who initially hesitated to vaccinate her youngest child but was convinced to do so after a conversation with Nathan Heffington.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

The current U.S. Health Secretary who has promoted unproven theories about vaccine dangers, further undermining public trust in life-saving immunizations.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Increased funding for public health initiatives, targeted education campaigns, and a renewed commitment to evidence-based medicine are crucial to addressing this crisis.

The takeaway

The measles outbreak in Spartanburg highlights the growing divide between public health experts and a segment of the population that is increasingly skeptical of vaccines. Addressing the root causes of vaccine hesitancy, such as misinformation and a belief in 'medical freedom', is crucial to preventing the resurgence of other vaccine-preventable diseases and protecting vulnerable populations.