The Gauteng Health Dept has issued a critical warning amid a concerning rise in measles cases across the province. Health officials have confirmed that vaccination rates in key metro areas—Johannesburg and Tshwane—have fallen below the minimum threshold required to prevent outbreaks, placing communities at heightened risk.
The warning follows the department’s announcement of a significant increase in measles cases, with 181 confirmed cases reported since the beginning of 2025. This growing number has prompted renewed concern over immunisation coverage and the urgent need for increased public awareness and vaccine uptake.
According to Motalatale Modiba, spokesperson for the Gauteng Health Dept, the immunisation coverage for the second dose of the measles vaccine is currently below 75% in both Johannesburg and Tshwane. This figure is far below the World Health Organization’s recommended coverage level of 95%, which is necessary to achieve herd immunity and prevent the spread of the virus.
“This has contributed to the steady increase in cases,” Modiba said, “including among individuals who had previously been vaccinated, and even among some adults.”
The resurgence of measles, a highly contagious viral disease, is of particular concern because it can cause severe complications, especially in children under five and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications can include pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and in some cases, death.
Measles is known for its high transmission rate. It spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. In environments with low vaccination coverage, a single measles case can quickly turn into a larger outbreak, affecting not only unvaccinated children but also adults whose immunity has waned.
The Gauteng Health Dept stressed the importance of completing the full course of the measles vaccine—typically administered in two doses. The first dose is given at 6 months of age, followed by a second dose at 12 months. Full immunity is not achieved unless both doses are administered.
“The situation we’re facing is avoidable,” said Modiba. “The vaccine is safe, effective, and freely available at public health facilities. The onus is now on parents, caregivers, and communities to take proactive steps to protect their families.”
Gauteng Health Dept Appeals to Public for Immediate Action
In response to the rising case numbers, the Gauteng Health Dept has intensified its outreach efforts. Mobile vaccination teams have been deployed to high-risk areas, including schools, early childhood development centers, and community gathering points. The department has also launched a public awareness campaign to educate residents about the dangers of measles and the benefits of timely vaccination.
“We urge all parents and guardians to check their children’s Road to Health booklets and ensure they are up to date with their vaccines,” said Modiba. “Even adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should visit a clinic for guidance.”
The department is also working closely with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) to monitor the outbreak and coordinate response efforts.
With Johannesburg and Tshwane accounting for the majority of the new measles cases, the Gauteng Health Dept has identified these metros as outbreak hotspots. The department is particularly concerned about the potential for further spread in densely populated urban areas, where limited healthcare access and vaccine hesitancy may exacerbate the situation.
Public health experts warn that if the current trend continues, the province may face a more widespread outbreak, straining healthcare systems already under pressure from seasonal flu and other preventable diseases.
To bolster vaccination efforts, the Gauteng Health Dept is calling for closer collaboration with local schools, early learning centers, and healthcare facilities. The department encourages schools to keep accurate vaccination records and refer unvaccinated learners to nearby clinics.
“We cannot allow misinformation or complacency to endanger public health,” said Modiba. “Vaccines are one of the greatest tools we have to prevent deadly diseases, and we need all stakeholders to step up during this critical time.”
The rise in measles cases is a stark reminder of the consequences of declining vaccination rates. The Gauteng Health Dept is taking a proactive stance, but lasting change requires community cooperation, public trust in science, and a renewed commitment to immunisation.
As cases continue to rise, residents of Johannesburg, Tshwane, and surrounding areas are urged to act now—verify immunisation status, get vaccinated, and spread the word about the importance of protecting ourselves and others from measles.
Source- EWN
