Ensure your children are vaccinated against measles

As the number of laboratory-confirmed measles cases continues to increase in the country, the Western Cape Department of Health urges parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children against measles. It is a preventable disease. Vaccination remains our best defense against the current outbreak in the Western Cape.

As of 22 February 2023, a total of 207 191 measles vaccines have been administered provincially. This translates to 12% of the 1 727 392 children under the age of 15 that need to be vaccinated as part of the ongoing campaign by 31 March 2023. 
 

Breakdown of measles vaccines administered provincially, as of 22 February 2023.

“We applaud our various vaccination teams for their efforts to ensure that our children are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. The contributions of the private sector, with its 9 601 measles vaccines administered to date as part of the campaign, are also appreciated. Those parents and caregivers wanting to vaccinate their children, may visit a pharmacy, clinic or private healthcare provider. We also thank the many parents who have supported our campaign since the beginning of the month. Those who still need to vaccinate their children against the measles are urged to do so without delay at their nearest clinic,” says Sonia Botha, the coordinator of the Western Cape’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation.

Through the ongoing measles campaign, we aim to interrupt measles transmission amongst our communities. Children 6 months to 15 years of age are included for vaccination during the outbreak response and nationwide campaign. Most side-effects from vaccination are minor and quickly disappear. Severe allergic reactions are rare. If any reaction is severe or persistent, or if you are worried about your child, please contact your healthcare worker or doctor.