Your child’s health is in your hands - Immunise now!

The power to protect your children is in your hands. Immunisation is your best weapon against communicable diseases, like diphtheria, that spread. Don’t let misinformation put you or your child at risk - vaccination is proven, safe, and effective.

Recently, a confirmed diphtheria case was reported in the Cape Town Metropole. The affected child has fully recovered after being vaccinated and receiving medical care. All close contacts are being tested, vaccinated, and treated. In 2024, there have been 7 reported cases in the Western Cape, with 6 from the Cape Town Metropole.

Watch for symptoms like a sore throat, fever, a thick white or grey coating on the back of the nose or throat, and/or difficulty breathing, and if you or your child has any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately at your local community health centre or clinic.

We need your help to prevent diphtheria and other diseases that can spread. By keeping your child’s vaccinations up to date - including the diphtheria booster vaccines at ages 6 and 12 - you’re not just protecting them; you’re helping to prevent the spread of disease in our communities. Anyone who comes in close contact with a diphtheria case during the infectious period or has not been fully immunised is at risk. Visit your local clinic to ensure your child is up to date with his/her vaccines.

Collaborative efforts are ongoing to control the spread of diphtheria and improve the vaccination coverage in the province. 

Let’s work together to keep our children safe.