Decline in infant immunisation

The provincial Department of Health and Wellness is voicing serious concern over a significant decline in infant-immunisation rates, urging parents to take immediate action to protect their children.

Provincial data for the 2024-‘2025 period reveals that coverage for children under one year has fallen sharply to under 67,4%. This represents a staggering 27,6% drop from the expected provincial target of 95% immunisation coverage.

This concerning trend is mirrored in local areas, including the Khayelitsha and Eastern Substructure, which encompasses the Helderberg, Khayelitsha and Eerste River.

The decline in vaccination numbers in these high-population areas leaves a large number of infants vulnerable to serious, preventable diseases such as measles, polio, tuberculosis, diphtheria, whooping cough and tetanus.

The consequences extend beyond individual children. The declining coverage weakens herd immunity, a critical defence that protects the most vulnerable members of the community, making outbreaks far more likely.

Gideon Coetzee, clinical coordinator for the Khayelitsha and Eastern Substructure, stressed the importance of timely vaccination. “Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your child’s health,” he stated. “Together, we can keep our children healthy.”

The department has issued an urgent appeal to all parents and caregivers to ensure their children are fully protected.

Vaccination not only shields the individual child but also safeguards the entire community.

Parents are strongly urged to:

• visit their nearest clinic to check their child’s Road-to-Health Booklet;

• ensure all scheduled vaccines are up to date; and

• take children who have missed doses for immediate catch-up immunisations.

The Department of Health and Wellness is calling on parents, caregivers and community leaders to become advocates for change to increase immunisation coverage and prevent outbreaks, working towards a healthier and safer society.

For more information or assistance, individuals can contact or visit their local clinic, where healthcare providers are available to assist with immunising children at no cost.