CAPE TOWN – Health authorities in the Western Cape are responding to a measles outbreak in the Belhar and Delft areas, with more than 20 cases reported since the beginning of 2026.
The outbreak reflects a broader national trend of declining childhood vaccination uptake, which has led to multiple outbreaks of measles, rubella and diphtheria across the province. Health officials warn that reduced vaccination coverage poses serious risks to public health and threatens South Africa’s efforts to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness has identified gaps in population immunity as the primary driver behind the recent outbreaks. Since October 2024, the department has intensified immunisation efforts to protect young children from life-threatening diseases.
Response measures
The department has implemented an early warning and response system that includes strengthened coordination, enhanced disease surveillance, clinical management of cases and community engagement. Targeted vaccination outreach programmes will be prioritised in areas experiencing rapid increases in measles cases.
“Ensuring immunisation coverage across the province remains a top priority,” the department stated.
Symptoms and complications
Measles is a highly contagious disease affecting the respiratory tract. Symptoms include high fever, rash, runny nose, conjunctivitis and coughing. Healthcare practitioners can diagnose the disease based on clinical signs and symptoms, confirmed through blood sample laboratory testing.
The department urges parents to monitor their children for symptoms and keep them home when unwell to prevent further transmission. Children experiencing fever, drowsiness or eating difficulties should be taken to the nearest clinic immediately.
Potential complications include pneumonia, diarrhoea, brain infection and blindness. These complications are more severe in infants under two years of age and in malnourished children.
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Vaccination availability
Free childhood vaccines are available at all public health facilities, with catch-up doses provided for children who have missed vaccinations. Vaccines are also accessible through private sector facilities and private-public partnerships.
Health authorities urge parents not to assume their children are immune and to ensure they receive routine immunisations. Parents are also encouraged to provide consent when school vaccination teams visit educational facilities.
The department’s response highlights the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to protect community health and prevent the resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases.
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