By Motshabi Hoaeane
According to the Gauteng Department of Health, the reported cases of measles in the province have risen.This comes after laboratory tests revealed 181 cases of measles particularly from Tshwane, Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni District.
Two cases have been reported in Ekurhuleni, and, in response to this the Gauteng Department of Health has taken a targeted approach to respond to this outbreak with areas such Daveyton, Slovo Park, Tembisa and Barcelona reaching 560 children for vaccination.
The contagious disease which can be contracted through the air through coughs and sneezes from those who have it can be observed through symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose and rash, Head of Communications Mr Motalatale Modiba.
“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, ten of which were reported in Tshwane, two in Johannesburg,
two in Ekurhuleni, and one in West Rand. The outbreak remains active in specific hotspots.” The Gauteng Department of Health, statement said.
Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo- Ralehoko said “We must close the immunity gap in our community and prevent further spread of the highly contagious disease particularly measles and rubella.”
“Vaccination is simple and safe and is our best protection against harmful diseases,” she said. She also encouraged everyone to support outreach and in the same breadth highlighting that people that are infected should stay at home for up to 7 days to prevent it from spreading. The department noted that people with the disease were given Vitamin A supplements to prevent complications from its contraction.
