SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. — A current measles outbreak in Spartanburg County has prompted three families to share their personal experiences with the disease and the MMR vaccine, offering different perspectives on a topic that affects many families.

The Department of Public Health reports 35 cases around Spartanburg county in the current outbreak.

Life before vaccines: Rubella’s lasting impact

Christine Castle says her 66-year-old sister Fonda is a ball of energy, often smiling and giggling. Fonda’s room is filled with baby dolls and cartoons, and she loves crafts.

“She has a lot of love to give,” Castle said.

But Fonda’s brain never fully developed past that of a five or six-year-old. Castle says their mother contracted rubella when she was seven months pregnant with Fonda, before vac

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