Measles Exposure at Upstate Walmart Sparks Alarm in South Carolina
Potential Measles Exposure at Upstate Walmart Sparks Alarm
Health officials in South Carolina have issued a warning after a potential measles exposure at a Walmart store in the Upstate region, amid the nation's largest outbreak since measles was declared eliminated over two decades ago. With cases surging to 962 as of mid-February 2026, centered in Spartanburg County, this retail hotspot adds to growing public health concerns. Nearly 88% of infections strike unvaccinated individuals, highlighting vaccination gaps where childhood rates dropped from 95% in 2019 to 92% in 2023.[1][2]
Outbreak Details and Rapid Spread
The outbreak, starting in October 2025, exploded with 44 new cases in early February alone, pushing totals past 920. Primarily affecting children aged 5-17 (615 cases) and under 5 (253 cases), it has led to 20 hospitalizations for complications. Statewide, over 16,800 vaccine doses were administered in January 2026—a 72% jump—yet 94% of cases remain unvaccinated or unknown status. Nationally, 910 cases reported by February 12 underscore the crisis.[3][4][5]
Protecting Communities Amid the Surge
Authorities urge verifying vaccination status, especially MMR shots, and monitoring for fever, rash, or cough after exposures. Quarantines affect hundreds, with isolation ending by early March. As South Carolina leads with 964 cases, outpacing Texas's 811, renewed vaccination drives offer hope against this highly contagious virus.[7][8]
About the Organizations Mentioned
Walmart
Walmart, founded in 1962 by Sam Walton, has grown from a single discount store in Arkansas to become the world’s largest retailer, with a commanding presence in both physical and digital retail landscapes[3]. As of fiscal year 2025, Walmart operates over 10,750 stores and serves approximately 270 million customers each week across 19 countries, employing about 2.1 million associates worldwide[1][2][4]. The company reported $681 billion in revenue for 2025, reflecting a 5.1% increase from the previous year and an 8.6% rise in operating income, underscoring its robust financial health and ongoing expansion[1][4][6]. ## What Walmart Does Walmart is a leader in hypermarkets and discount retail, offering a vast range of products—from groceries and apparel to electronics and home goods—through its extensive network of physical stores, e-commerce platforms, and mobile apps[2][3]. Its business is organized into three main segments: Walmart U.S., Walmart International, and Sam’s Club, a members-only warehouse club[3][5]. The company’s mission—“to help people save money and live better”—drives its focus on everyday low prices, convenience, and customer-centric innovation[2][5]. ## History and Key Achievements Walmart’s journey from a single store to a global powerhouse is marked by relentless expansion, operational efficiency, and technological adoption[3]. Key milestones include the launch of Walmart Supercenters in the 1980s, international expansion beginning in the 1990s, and the rapid growth of its e-commerce business in the 2010s and beyond[3]. Today, online sales account for 18% of Walmart’s revenue, fueled by four consecutive quarters of 20% growth[1]. The company’s retail media network, Walmart Connect, has also surged, with ad revenue up 50% in a recent quarter
