The Western Cape Department of Health has reported an increase in measles cases across several communities. Declining childhood vaccination rates are blamed for the outbreaks. The department is ramping up immunisation efforts to curb the spread.
The Western Cape Department of Health has issued a warning about rising measles cases in key areas including Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, Eerste River, Somerset West, Mfuleni, Kraaifontein, and Wesbank. Spokesperson Monique Johnstone attributed the outbreaks to declining childhood vaccination rates, which are also contributing to cases of rubella and diphtheria.
To address the issue, the department is prioritizing immunisation drives, targeted vaccination outreach, and community engagement programs. These initiatives aim to protect children from serious complications linked to measles. Johnstone explained the disease's nature: “Measles is a highly contagious disease that infects the respiratory tract. Symptoms of measles include high fever, rash, runny nose, conjunctivitis and coughing. Healthcare practitioners can diagnose measles on signs and symptoms and a blood sample collected for laboratory testing.”
Free childhood vaccines are available at all public health facilities, with catch-up doses offered for children who have missed vaccinations. Vaccines can also be accessed through private sector facilities and private-public partnerships. This response comes amid a broader national trend, with South Africa reporting over 700 confirmed measles infections this year, primarily in Gauteng, followed by the Free State and Mpumalanga, according to epidemiologist Jack Manamela of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.
The Western Cape efforts underscore the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks in vulnerable communities.