The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has encouraged parents, guardians, and caregivers to vaccinate their children as the measles outbreak has touched down in the Western Cape.

A total of 313 641 measles vaccines have been administered in the province as part of the measles vaccination campaign. In addition, 12 651 measles vaccines have been administered by private pharmacies, clinics and healthcare providers. This translates to 15% of the 1 727 392 children under the age of 15 that need to be vaccinated by the end of March. It is important that more children are reached and provided with the vaccine to avoid any complications from the measles disease.

Breakdown of measles vaccines administered provincially, as of 1 March 2023:

Cape Metro – 147 239 (10% coverage rate)
Cape Winelands – 57 317 (20% coverage rate)
Central Karoo – 5 426 (23% coverage rate)
Garden Route – 45 011 (23% coverage rate)
Overberg – 25 203 (26% coverage rate)
West Coast – 33 355 (22% coverage rate)

Western Cape’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation

The coordinator of the Western Cape’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation Sanie Botha says vaccination is voluntary and parental consent is needed in crèches and schools for children to receive the vaccination.

With only a few weeks left to interrupt the spread of measles through vaccination, we appeal to parents, caregivers and guardians to support our campaign. This will contribute to increased protection against and contribute to the elimination of measles.

The programme focuses on the why, when and how. Their message is ‘Let’s stop the outbreak. Botha says measles is preventable, the vaccine is safe, and you can ensure your child is protected by letting them get vaccinated.

Through the ongoing measles campaign, the programme aims to interrupt measles transmission in communities. Children 6 months to 15 years 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. Contact your healthcare worker or doctor if any reaction is severe or if you are worried about your child.