A further 106 450 children under the age of 15, gets measles jab in the Western Cape

A further 106 450 children under the age of 15, have been vaccinated against measles in a space of a week in the Western Cape.

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 children against severe disease. This comes after a measles outbreak was declared in the Cape Metro.  

According to the department, to date, a total of 313 641 measles vaccines have been administered provincially as part of the measles vaccination campaign.

In addition, a total of 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 31 March 2023.

SUPPLIED: WCDHW

‘’It is important that we reach many more children and provide them with this potentially life-saving vaccine to avoid any complications from the measles disease. The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness encourages parents, guardians and caregivers to ensure children are vaccinated this month… Vaccination is safer than having the disease (and potential complications) itself,’’ said the provincial department in a statement.

“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. When we focus on the why, when and how, the message to parents is simple: ‘Let’s stop the outbreak, measles is preventable, the vaccine is safe, you can ensure your child is protected by letting them get vaccinated,” says Sonia Botha, the coordinator of the Western Cape’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation.

‘’Through the ongoing measles campaign, we aim to interrupt measles transmission amongst our communities. Children 6 months to 15 years of age 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. If any reaction is severe or persistent, or if you are worried about your child, please contact your healthcare worker or doctor,’’ she added.

 

Done By: Mitchum George