Western Cape reaches half a million measles vaccines administered

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent measles. And when enough children 6 months to 15 years of age get vaccinated against measles, the more we can stop future outbreaks. With a current vaccination rate at 32% and 11 laboratory confirmed measles cases in the province, the Western Cape needs the support of parents, guardians and caregivers before the national campaign ends on 31 March 2023.

To date, a total of 545 121 measles vaccines have been administered provincially as part of the measles vaccination campaign. In addition, a total of 18 284 measles vaccines have been administered by private pharmacies, clinics and healthcare providers. This translates to 32% of the 1 727 392 children under the age of 15 that need to be vaccinated by the end of March. 

Breakdown of measles vaccines administered provincially, as of 15 March 2023:

Cape Metro – 279 888 (25% coverage rate)

Cape Winelands – 48 534 (40% coverage rate)

Central Karoo – 11 389 (54% coverage rate)

Garden Route – 72 920 (46% coverage rate)

Overberg – 32 961 (42% coverage rate)

West Coast – 48 534 (40% coverage rate)

“Our target is for a large proportion of eligible children to be vaccinated against measles, therefore the support from parents is very important. This will help to ensure that we avoid any complications from the measles disease and keep our children safe. Unvaccinated children can still access a free measles vaccine at a clinic or at a minimal cost at one of our private partners. The vaccine is also being offered at several schools,” 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.