The Department of Health has warned over a growing rubella outbreak, with Gauteng emerging as the province most severely affected.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), 10,137 rubella cases have been recorded nationwide between January and November, surpassing last year’s total.

Health spokesperson Foster Mohale explained that rubella, also known as German measles, is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination.

“Most cases were recorded in Gauteng and the Western Cape, with over 90% affecting children under 15. Gauteng alone accounts for 2,603 cases, followed by KwaZulu-Natal (1,996) and the Western Cape (1,338). Only one case was recorded in someone over 50,” Mohale said.

While rubella in children is typically mild and self-limiting, the risk of transmission remains high due to low prior exposure and vaccination rates.

“If children are not vaccinated or have not encountered the virus through natural infection, they remain vulnerable,” Mohale added.

The disease spreads via droplets from coughing or sneezing, making crowded environments particularly risky.

Mohale urged parents and caregivers to monitor children closely for symptoms such as rash, fever, sore throat, headache, runny nose, swollen lymph nodes, and nausea, typically appearing 2–3 weeks after exposure.

Pregnant women are at higher risk of severe complications, especially if infected during the first trimester, as this can result in congenital rubella syndrome, leading to birth defects.

Mohale assured the public that government healthcare facilities will remain open during the festive season to ensure timely detection and treatment.

“There’s no need to panic, but anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately to prevent further transmission,” he said.

Provincial Breakdown of Cases:
Gauteng: 2,603
KwaZulu-Natal: 1,996
Western Cape: 1,338
Eastern Cape: 1,113
North West: 899
Northern Cape: 862
Mpumalanga: 665
Free State: 471
Limpopo: 190

The Department continues to emphasize the importance of vaccination in curbing the spread of rubella.

#RubellaOutbreak The Health Department has warned the public of the rising rubella cases around the country.

A total number of 10137 positive cases of rubella have been identified between Jan and Nov 2024, which is higher than cases recorded last year. pic.twitter.com/TLAGgR8Y2l

— National Department of Health (@HealthZA) December 19, 2024

ALSO READ:Pretoria parents urged to vaccinate as rubella cases surge   

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