South Africa: Elevated measles activity reported across multiple provinces during February /update 1

Event

South African health officials have reported an additional 215 cases of measles Jan. 13-Feb. 21, bringing the total case count to 586 since Sept. 1. Over a similar period in 2021, there were only 21 cases reported. Limpopo remains the most at-risk province reporting 209 cases, followed by North West (182 cases), Mpumalanga (96 cases), and Gauteng (75 cases). Provinces reporting 25 measles cases or less are the Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Cape, and Western Cape. Of the confirmed cases with known vaccination histories (114 cases), 67 did not receive a single dose of the measles vaccine. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 1.

Context

Measles vaccination coverage in South Africa was estimated at 84 percent in 2020 and 87 percent in 2021, lower than the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. The last notable measles outbreak in South Africa occurred in Gauteng in 2017 when 92 cases were reported.

Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure, but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.

Advice

Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.