Emergency measles vaccination campaign launched
In response to the recent measles outbreak confirmed by the Gauteng Health MEC Gwen Ramokgopa, the City of Ekurhuleni has rolled out an emergency measles vaccination campaign which will run until Friday, May 26.
Measles is an infectious viral disease causing fever and a red rash on the skin, typically occurring in childhood.
Signs and symptoms of measles include cough, runny nose, inflamed red itchy eyes, sore throat, fever and a red blotchy skin rash.
Also called rubeola, measles is a serious condition and can be fatal for small children. In this regard, parents are encouraged to get their children from the ages of six months to five years of age vaccinated irrespective of their immunisation status.
“Measles is a very contagious disease that can spread through contact with infected mucus and saliva. An infected person can easily release the infection into the air when they cough or sneeze.”
“The best way to ensure that the children are protected from the virus is getting them vaccinated,” said Ekurhuleni spokesperson Themba Gadebe.
Parents are reminded to ensure they bring along their child’s clinic card when visiting health facilities for immunisation.
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