Gauteng Health sounds alarm over measles outbreak
Although only one case of measles has been confirmed on the West Rand, the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is urging the public to get vaccinated, as cases are rising at an alarming rate in other parts of the province.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has intensified its public health response following a continued rise in measles cases across the province.
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Motalatale Modiba, head of communications at GDoH, stated that there have been 181 confirmed cases reported between January 1 and June 13, with numerous cases emerging from the Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni districts.
“This persistent outbreak follows previous clusters dating back to 2022, which led to a measles vaccination campaign in 2023. In the latest reporting period, Gauteng recorded 15 new measles cases, 10 of which were reported in Tshwane, two in Johannesburg, two in Ekurhuleni, and one in West Rand.
The outbreak has revealed a concerning immunity gap in the province, specifically among children who are either not fully vaccinated or have never received the measles or rubella vaccine,” Modiba said.
Modiba added that the immunisation coverage for the second dose of the measles vaccine remains below 75% in Johannesburg, significantly below the level required to prevent outbreaks. This has contributed to the steady increase in cases, including among people who had previously been vaccinated, and even some adults.
“In the Johannesburg district, the department implemented a targeted response by vaccinating contacts and conducting outbreak campaigns in areas including Diepsloot, Midrand, Cosmo City, Hillbrow, and Rosettenville. To date, more than 3,500 people have been vaccinated in the district, with further campaigns scheduled for busy community sites including the Diepsloot and Cosmo City taxi ranks.
The West Rand and Sedibeng districts, while not currently experiencing outbreaks, remain on high alert.
“GDoH is working closely with districts to strengthen surveillance, ensure rapid response, and improve vaccination coverage. The department is expected to embark on a comprehensive four-week province-wide vaccination campaign as part of broader intervention activities,” Modiba said.
The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has urged all parents and guardians to ensure their children are vaccinated, encouraging them to work with health teams conducting school and community campaigns.
“We must close the immunity gap in our communities and prevent further spread of the highly contagious diseases, particularly measles and rubella. Vaccination is simple, safe, and is our best protection against harmful diseases. We encourage everyone to support our outreach teams and protect our children’s health,” Nkomo-Ralehoko stated.
The public is reminded that people who are infected with measles must isolate at home for at least seven days to prevent further transmission.
“All suspected cases are provided with Vitamin A supplements to reduce the risk of complications. The department remains committed to containing the spread of measles and rubella in the province and urges the public to remain vigilant, get vaccinated, and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and those around them,” Modiba concluded.
