The Gauteng Department of Health has launched a massive vaccination campaign to curb the spread of measles and rubella. Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko issued a stern warning to parents against dangerous vaccine misinformation circulating on social media. Addressing vaccine misinformation is crucial to ensure the success of the campaign.
Speaking at the campaign launch, Nkomo-Ralehoko appealed directly to parents and guardians. The province aims to immunise over four million children between six months and 15 years old by 12 September. Tackling vaccine misinformation will involve educating communities.
Tackling the Measles Outbreak
The six-week campaign, themed “Lifelong Protection against Measles and Rubella Disease,” is a direct response to a worrying measles outbreak in the province. Health officials have confirmed more than 370 cases in Gauteng this year. Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Ekurhuleni are the hardest-hit areas.
Emphasising the urgency of the situation, Nkomo-Ralehoko stated that these are not mere statistics but real children at risk. They could face serious complications if the province fails to act now. Combating vaccine misinformation is vital for public health.
The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine is a standard part of South Africa’s child immunisation schedule. It is given at six and 12 months. This campaign will offer a crucial booster dose to strengthen protection. It will reach children who may have previously missed their vaccinations.
MEC Urges Trust in Health Professionals
A key focus of the MEC’s message was combating the “infodemic” of false claims about vaccines online. Vaccine misinformation undermines trust in health solutions. She implored parents to seek advice from credible sources.
Nkomo-Ralehoko said that if parents have doubts, they should not turn to social media platforms like TikTok or Facebook. Instead, she advised them to consult health professionals at their nearest clinic.
The department reiterated that vaccination is a proven method. It can prevent severe complications and disabilities that result from measles and rubella infections.
How the Campaign Will Reach Every Child
To achieve its ambitious goal, the department has mobilised a multi-pronged approach. The health department will deploy vaccination teams across the province at various locations, including:
- Schools and crèches
- Clinics and hospitals
- Taxi ranks and shopping malls
- Door-to-door visits in some communities
Hospitals have established additional vaccination points, and schools have sent consent forms home with learners. Nkomo-Ralehoko urged parents, caregivers, and guardians to sign and return the consent forms to protect their children.
Health workers are also conducting a “corner-to-corner” campaign, reviewing children’s Road to Health booklets to administer any missed catch-up doses. Every missed vaccine is an opportunity for measles to spread, Nkomo-Ralehoko warned.
The National Picture
While Gauteng battles its measles outbreak, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has confirmed that nationally, it is still detecting the rubella virus more frequently than measles. This is based on lab samples submitted this year.
Sustained rubella transmission has been noted in the North West and Northern Cape provinces. Measles transmission continues in the Free State. The NICD said a concerning rise in cases among individuals aged 15 to 49. This highlights that these diseases are not limited to young children.
The MEC has appealed for a united front. She called on the Gauteng Department of Education, NGOs, faith leaders, and the private sector to support the immunisation drive. This effort will help safeguard the province’s children.
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