Tshwane warns of rise in measles cases

The rise has prompted the city to embark on a vaccination campaign targeting schoolchildren and high-risk communities in regions 1 and 6.

Health authorities say both children and adults have been affected by the outbreak, with infections spreading quickly in recent weeks.

In response, the city’s Outbreak Response Team has rolled out a measles-rubella vaccination campaign aimed at curbing the spread.

The campaign, which began in schools on 5 June, aims to vaccinate all children aged six months to 15 years, regardless of their prior vaccination history.

It will continue until the end of the school term on Friday, and extend through the school holidays at clinics and early childhood development centres.

"Children are the priority group, however, adults may also be vaccinated following clinical assessment and where the individual consents", the city said in a statement.

Parents and caregivers are urged to either take their children to the nearest clinic or give written consent for vaccinations administered at schools and crèches.

Measles is a highly contagious virus spread through coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include a high fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes.

Complications can be severe, particularly in infants, malnourished children, and people with weakened immune systems, ranging from pneumonia and brain infections to blindness and even death.

Although there is no specific cure for measles, the disease is entirely preventable through vaccination. 

Health officials have urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, warning that the virus can remain airborne in enclosed spaces for up to two hours and infect anyone who is not immune.

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