The Gauteng Health Department has expressed concern over the increasing number of cases of measles in the province.
A total of 181 cases have been confirmed since the beginning of the year, with most cases reported in Johannesburg, Tshwane and Ekurhuleni districts.
“This persistent outbreak follows previous clusters dating back to 2022, which led to a measles vaccination campaign in 2023.
“In the latest reporting period, Gauteng recorded 15 new measles cases, ten of which were reported in Tshwane, two in Johannesburg, two in Ekurhuleni, and one in West Rand.
“The outbreak remains active in specific hotspot areas including Mamelodi and Winterveld in Tshwane, where 35 and 10 cases have been reported respectively,” said the department spokesperson, Motalatale Modiba.
The department has since embarked on an aggressive targeted vaccination campaign in schools, with over 18 000 learners vaccinated to date in more than 15 schools in Mamelodi and 16 schools in Winterveld.
Modiba said inter-facility immunisation has also commenced, offering measles-rubella booster doses to all age groups regardless of prior vaccination history.
The department expressed concern regarding the immunity gap, especially among children who are either not fully vaccinated or have never received the measles or rubella vaccine.
“Immunisation coverage for the second dose of the measles vaccine remains below 75% in both Johannesburg and Tshwane significantly below the level required to prevent outbreaks.
“This has contributed to the steady increase in cases, including among individuals who had previously been vaccinated, and even among some adults.
“Modiba said in the Johannesburg district, the department has implemented targeted response by vaccinating contacts and conducting outbreak campaigns in areas such as Diepsloot, Midrand, Cosmo City, Hillbrow, and Rosettenville, with over 3 500 people vaccinated.
“In Ekurhuleni district, targeted campaigns have reached children in Daveyton, Slovo Park, Tembisa and Barcelona, where 560 children have already received vaccines. West Rand and Sedibeng districts, while not currently experiencing outbreaks, remain on high alert. There have been 16 reported hospital admissions linked to measles in Tshwane, all of whom have since been discharged. No deaths have been reported,” explained Modiba.
Meanwhile, MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has urged all parents and guardians to ensure their children are vaccinated.
“We must close the immunity gap in our communities and prevent further spread of the highly contagious diseases particularly measles and rubella. Vaccination is simple, safe and is our best protection against harmful diseases. We encourage everyone to support our outreach teams and protect our children’s health,” pleaded Nkomo-Ralehoko.
