South Africa has reported its first cases of measles after four cases were confirmed through laboratory testing by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).
The cases were detected over the past two weeks.
According to the health department and the NICD, three cases are known to be epidemiologically linked, and are resident in south-western Tshwane. The fourth case is resident on the West Rand of Gauteng.
The department’s spokesperson Foster Mohale said all four individuals are in isolation.
“The health authorities in the affected districts and communities are working together to identify and conduct vaccination of contacts, and (Health) Minister Phaahla urges parents and caregivers to ensure that their children are up-to-date with their vaccinations in line with the vaccination schedule against measles and other childhood diseases.”
Symptoms include fever, red eyes, runny nose and cough.
Mohale said departmental officials are working closely with other stakeholders including the World Health Organization and UNICEF to investigate and respond to the outbreak.
The health department said non-pharmaceutical measures such as social distancing and hand-washing might not be sufficient to prevent transmission of the measles virus.
“Measles is preventable through a safe and effective vaccine. Caregivers and mothers are urged to ensure that children are up to date with their routine vaccinations.”
