The Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness has escalated its vaccination campaigns, warning of an increase in measles outbreaks in areas like Khayelitsha, Mfuleni, Eerste River, Somerset West, Mitchells Plain, Kraaifontein and Wesbank, reports IOL.
The department said a decline in childhood jabs has contributed to multiple outbreaks of measles, rubella, and diphtheria across the province.
“Ensuring immunisation coverage remains our top priority. Since October 2024, the department has ramped up its immunisation efforts to protect children from serious and life-threatening vaccine-preventable diseases,” it said in a statement.
It has encouraged parents to keep their children at home if they display any symptoms and to take them to the nearest clinic if they feel sleepy, or struggle to eat.
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