Measles vaccine roll-out ramped up amid outbreak
According to a study in the South African Medical Journal (SAMJ), the COVID-19 pandemic caused a massive disruption to standard childhood immunisation programmes.
Due to the widespread outbreak of measles in the country, with outbreaks in five provinces (Limpopo, the North-West, Mpumalanga, Free State, and Gauteng) having the most infections, government has launched a national measles vaccine drive for all children under 15.
It is recommended that every child receive the measles jab, regardless of their vaccination history.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, caused by a virus transmitted through direct contact or airborne droplets. It weakens the immune system, causes a total-body skin rash, flu-like symptoms and makes the child more vulnerable to other infectious diseases.
In 2021, there were 9 million measles cases and 128 000 reported deaths globally1.
Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease (VPD), meaning vaccination is critical to eliminate the disease.
According to a study in the South African Medical Journal (SAMJ), the COVID-19 pandemic caused a massive disruption to standard childhood immunisation programmes.
The World Health Organisation also stated that “routine immunisation programmes were badly disrupted, and millions of kids missed out on life-saving vaccinations against deadly diseases like measles[1]”.
The campaign date is from 6 tot 17 February.
Vitamin A and deworming will also be given to children who previously missed doses, or are due now.
As from Monday 20 February till 31 March 2023, vaccination will be done at creches, primary schools and secondary and will run concurrently with the HPV campaign.
Please send your child’s Road-to-Health booklet to the school on the campaign dates. However, if you do not have a booklet, the services will still be provided.
Parents who have enquiries about the campaign are welcome to contact Sister Makgoe at the Parys Clinic on 066 443 7721.
What you should know about measles:
Remember always make sure your child’s vaccination is up to date.
