Mortgage Broker in Sumter, SC

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - The South Carolina Department of Public Health confirmed a case of measles in part of the Midlands.

DPH said Tuesday that the case was reported in Sumter County. Officials also noted that it’s not clear if it is linked to the ongoing measles outbreak in the Upstate, primarily centered in Spartanburg County.

It’s the first case reported outside of the Upstate since the outbreak began in late 2025.

The agency also identified three possible places where others could have been exposed in the Sumter area:

DPH said it is unaware of any risk for measles exposure beyond those locations and times. Those possible exposed are asked to monitor for symptoms through Feb. 13, 14 and 15.

“Measles symptoms to watch for typically begin 7-12 days (but can occur up to 21 days) after exposure, and include cough, runny nose, and red watery eyes, and fever followed by a rash two to three days later that starts on the face then spreads to the rest of the body,” the department said.

The agency said anyone who may have been exposed and develops a fever, cough, runny nose or red eyes should call a healthcare provider regardless of whether they have a rash or not.

“Arrangements like the use of masks or isolating you from others in waiting areas to evaluate you without putting others at risk of exposure may be utilized. You may be asked to stay at home until the doctor clears you,” DPH said.

DPH reported 29 total new cases statewide on Tuesday, bringing the total number in the outbreak to 876. Of that number, data shows 800 were not vaccinated for measles as of Feb. 3.

This is a developing story. Stay with WIS for updates.

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South Carolina DPH reports 29 new measles cases, bringing the outbreak total to 876, with a new case and public exposures identified in Sumter County.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — The South Carolina Department of Public Health reported 29 new measles cases statewide since Friday, bringing the total number of cases linked to the Upstate outbreak to 876.

DPH said there are currently 354 people in quarantine and 22 in isolation. The latest end date of quarantine for those individuals is February 24.

Health officials also confirmed a measles case in a Sumter County resident. They say they do not confirm specific numbers of cases when there is less than five, but they do say there are less than five in the county.

At this stage of the investigation, DPH said it is not yet clear whether the case is connected to the Upstate outbreak centered around Spartanburg County or if the person may have been exposed in another area where measles is circulating.

DPH has identified several locations in Sumter County where exposure to infectious measles may have occurred. The agency has defined the potential exposure windows at the following locations:

DPH said it is not aware of any risk for measles exposure at these locations outside of the listed times.

News 19 asked members of the public this afternoon how they felt about measles reaching their community.

“I feel as if each and every parent had their child immunized, and themselves, this could all be avoided, but instead they would rather not take the time out of the day and have their child immunized,” Dana Griffin said.

“I was in there earlier today and had no knowledge of the incident with the measles, and I have a four-year-old daughter, so it really does bother me. If they allow people to walk around without immunizations, then they should make a notice when someone goes in,” Dailyn Griffin said.

“My children are vaccinated and I’ve got the vaccine, so I am not necessarily worried for us, but it’s also scary because it’s an epidemic and it could become a pandemic, and that’s scary,” Kailey Davis said.

Nicky Spencer works at a business across the street from Mariachis Mexican Restaurant. This was her reaction.

“It’s just a little shocking, being that they are across the street and we see their parking lot is always flooded with people. That is just a little disturbing,” Spencer said.

People who were at the identified locations during the exposure periods, particularly those without immunity through vaccination or prior infection, are advised to monitor for symptoms through Feb. 13, Feb. 14 and Feb. 15, respectively.

Measles symptoms typically begin seven to 12 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days later, and include cough, runny nose, red watery eyes and fever, followed by a rash two to three days later that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.

Anyone who may have been exposed and develops symptoms such as a fever of 101 degrees or higher, cough, runny nose or red eyes, with or without a rash, is urged to immediately call a health care provider and report the exposure and symptoms. DPH said providers may use precautions such as masks or isolating patients in waiting areas to prevent further exposure, and individuals may be asked to remain at home until cleared by a doctor.

DPH said vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and stop the outbreak. Vaccines are available through primary care providers, pharmacies and DPH health departments.

According to DPH, of the 876 confirmed cases, 233 involve children under age 5, 555 involve children ages 5 to 17, 71 involve adults 18 and older, and 17 cases have unknown ages. Vaccination data show 800 cases are unvaccinated, 16 are partially vaccinated, 22 are vaccinated and 38 have unknown vaccination status.

Sumter County, SC – Drivers across Sumter County are being urged to use extreme caution today after sheriff’s deputies reported widespread snow-covered and icy road conditions at multiple locations Wednesday morning.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, deputies conducted road checks and shared photos from several major routes and intersections, showing packed snow, visible tire ruts, and slick surfaces that could make stopping and turning difficult.

Road condition reports were posted from Pinewood and Kingsbury, 521 South near Britton, Wedgefield at Lynum, Wedgefield and Pitts, and Wedgefield at Oakland. Images show untreated roadways with snow accumulation extending across travel lanes, shoulders, and intersections, including areas controlled by traffic signals and yield signs.

Authorities say rural routes and less-traveled roads may be especially hazardous due to limited treatment and lingering ice, particularly during the early morning hours when temperatures remain below freezing. Even as skies appear clear, shaded areas and bridges may stay slick longer than expected.

Officials are advising motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid unnecessary travel until road conditions improve. Drivers are also reminded to watch for emergency vehicles and road crews working in affected areas.

No crashes or injuries were immediately reported in connection with the road conditions, but deputies emphasized that conditions can change quickly as temperatures fluctuate.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official updates from the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office and local emergency management for the latest road and weather advisories.

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Sumter County, SC – Drivers traveling through northern Sumter County are urged to use extreme caution today after deputies reported icy and snow-covered road conditions along a key highway corridor.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, hazardous conditions were observed on Highway 521 North near Highway 441, in the North Spencer area, as winter weather left portions of the roadway slick and partially snow-covered. A road report image shared by the agency shows ice buildup and reduced traction, particularly along travel lanes.

Officials warned that conditions may be especially dangerous during the early morning hours, when temperatures remain low and ice is slower to melt. Even treated roads can remain slippery, particularly on bridges, shaded areas, and elevated surfaces.

Motorists traveling through Sumter County, located northeast of Columbia and within South Carolina’s Midlands region, are advised to reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking. Authorities also recommend delaying travel if possible until road conditions improve.

No crashes or injuries were immediately reported in connection with the icy stretch, but deputies emphasized that conditions can change quickly as temperatures fluctuate.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local updates from law enforcement and transportation officials before heading out. Road conditions across the county may vary, and untreated secondary roads could remain hazardous longer than main highways.

Anyone encountering dangerous road conditions is urged to report them to local authorities.

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Sumter, SC – Nearly 100 children across Sumter County received Christmas presents this holiday season thanks to a community-driven effort led by the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, the annual “Stuff a Cruiser for Christmas” event was held over three days and focused on collecting toys and gifts for children in need throughout the county. The initiative was made possible through a partnership with BJ’s Wholesale Club and support from local residents, businesses, and organizations.

The program invited community members to donate toys that were then distributed by deputies ahead of Christmas. Officials said the effort ensured children who may not have otherwise received gifts were able to experience the holiday.

Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis praised the community response, noting that residents consistently step up when there is a need. He also highlighted the role deputies played in delivering the donated gifts, calling the outreach a meaningful way for law enforcement to give back during the holiday season.

The sheriff’s office specifically thanked Necy Bradley, Assistant Club Manager at BJ’s Wholesale Club, for hosting the event, along with several contributing organizations. Those recognized included State Tree Service, Black River Electric, and the Love Doctors Motorcycle Club, all of which donated toys or resources to support the drive.

Sheriff Dennis added that deputies were proud to take part in the effort and emphasized the spirit of generosity behind the event, saying the experience reinforced the idea that giving can be just as rewarding as receiving.

The sheriff’s office said it plans to continue community-focused programs like “Stuff a Cruiser for Christmas” in the future, encouraging residents to stay involved and support local outreach efforts throughout the year.

This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.Follow us on Instagram & Facebook for more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!