Gauteng rolls out mobile clinics in fight against measles
The Gauteng Department of Health has added seven vehicles to its fleet as the province battles to contain an outbreak of measles.
The vehicles will be used by the department’s Integrated School Health Programme teams across the province.
Earlier this week, the department warned that the immunisation coverage for the second dose of the measles vaccine remains below 75% in Johannesburg and Tshwane.
On Friday, Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko held a handover ceremony of mobile vaccination facilities at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa.
“This is more than a handover, it is a message to our young people that their health matters. We are taking services directly to schools, especially in underserved areas, to ensure every learner receives the care they need,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The MEC added that the handover comes at a critical time when the province faces a growing measles outbreak.
“The ISHP offers health screenings for hearing, vision, oral health, and mental well-being, as well as immunisations and health education. The programme plays a vital role in identifying and addressing health issues that may affect learning outcomes, “ said the MEC.
“These vehicles will help us reach more learners with lifesaving vaccines. We must close the immunity gap and stop the spread of measles and rubella.”
ALSO READ:
