The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has reported a notable increase in measles cases across South Africa, with 1,237 confirmed infections recorded nationally.
According to the NICD’s latest national measles surveillance report, several provinces have seen new cases in recent weeks.
“Gauteng reported 11 additional cases, bringing the total to 640. Limpopo recorded 15 new cases, with a total of 184. The Free State reported five new cases with a total of 147. Mpumalanga reported six new cases with a total of 102, while the Western Cape recorded 17 new cases, bringing its total to 78,” the NICD said.
The institute has called for intensified vaccination campaigns to curb the spread of the highly contagious disease, urging parents to ensure that their children are fully immunised.
“Parents whose children have missed their scheduled measles immunisation vaccine doses are encouraged to take their children for a measles vaccine catch-up dose,” the NICD advised.
The agency further emphasised the importance of strengthening measles surveillance, improving case reporting, and conducting contact tracing nationwide. Provinces have also been urged to perform measles risk assessments and continue with targeted immunisation activities in areas with low vaccine coverage or high numbers of under-vaccinated children.
“These efforts are particularly critical in ‘zero dose’ areas, where children have never received any vaccines, and among those who received only one instead of the recommended two measles doses,” the NICD noted.
The institute also reminded the public to be alert to the early symptoms of measles, which include a runny nose, coughing, and red, watery eyes. Parents who suspect their children may be infected are urged to visit their nearest health facility immediately.
