The Western Cape Department of Health has confirmed a rise in measles cases across several communities, including Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Eerste River, Somerset West, Mitchells Plain, Kraaifontein, and Wesbank.

Department spokesperson Monique Johnstone urged parents and caregivers not to assume their children are immune to the virus.

She said the Department is prioritising immunisation drives, targeted vaccination outreach, and community engagement to protect children from serious complications linked to measles.

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that affects the respiratory tract. Symptoms include high fever, rash, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and coughing. Healthcare practitioners can diagnose measles based on symptoms, and a blood sample may be collected for laboratory testing.”

She encouraged parents to ensure children receive their routine immunisations and to sign consent forms when school vaccination teams visit.

“Free childhood vaccines are available at all public health facilities, and catch-up doses can be given if a child has missed a vaccination. Vaccines are also available through private facilities and public-private partnerships.”

Parents are also advised to be alert for signs of measles and to keep children at home if they show symptoms.

“Should your child run a fever, feel unusually sleepy, or struggle to eat, take them to the nearest clinic immediately. Keeping children at home when they display these symptoms is crucial to curbing the spread of this highly contagious disease.”