Minister Mbombo encourages parents to vaccinate their children against measles
“Your child’s health is in your hands. Vaccinate against measles.” This was the message from the Western Cape Minister of Health Dr Nomafrench Mbombo at the launch of the province’s measles vaccination campaign in Kleinvlei on 15 February 2023.
Since the start of the campaign on 6 February, 114 185 children under 15 years of age have been vaccinated in the Western Cape. The campaign runs until 31 March.
Breakdown of measles vaccines administered provincially, as of 15 February 2023.
|
District |
Number of vaccines administered |
|
Cape Metro |
25 034 |
|
City of Cape Town |
18 059 |
|
Cape Winelands |
27 087 |
|
Central Karoo |
2 269 |
|
Garden Route |
17 173 |
|
Overberg |
8 707 |
|
West Coast |
15 856 |
Measles is extremely contagious and is one of the most easily spread viruses that infects humans. Symptoms usually include fever, cough, red eyes and a rash. Prevention and control of measles outbreaks can only be achieved through vaccination.
“I encourage all parents to learn more about measles and to vaccinate their children as soon as possible. The vaccines are free at our facilities, and they will ensure our children are healthy and thriving,” said Minister Mbombo.
Through this campaign, the Department is working with residents to ensure that children’s immunisations are up to date and provides them with additional protection against this life-threatening infection. We urgent parents, guardians and care givers to vaccinate their children against measles. Remember to sign and return the consent form to your child's crèche or school.
“Today I wanted to make sure that I bring my child to the clinic in Kleinvlei to get the measles vaccine. My child’s health is very important to me,” said Alyssa Du Preez, a mother from Eerste River.
The Western Cape’s aim is to have 95% of children under the age of 15 immunised against measles as this would prevent outbreaks and provide greater immunity for our children against severe disease. To be protected against measles, it is important for parents to take up the offer to vaccinate their children. The more children under the age of 15 are vaccinated against measles, the less the risks of both short- and long-term potential complications.