Gauteng Health Department reports rise in measles cases, concerning vaccination gap
“Measles is a very contagious viral disease… but it’s completely preventable through vaccination,” says Professor Talitha Croxley of the University of the Western Cape.
A child with measles. Picture: CDC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
702 and CapeTalk's Africa Melane speaks to Associate Professor Talitha Croxley of the School of Nursing: Academic Division Head at the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
Listen below:
Measles is on the rise in Gauteng, with 181 laboratory-confirmed cases reported from 1 January to 13 June 2025.
The Gauteng Department of Health says the outbreak revealed a concerning immunity gap, particularly among children.
“Measles is a very contagious viral disease… but it’s completely preventable through vaccination.”
– Professor Talitha Croxley, School of Nursing – University of Western Cape
Symptoms of measles resemble those of the flu, and in three to four days, a skin irritation will appear.
A 95% vaccination coverage is required to achieve immunity within a community. Coverage sits below 75% in Johannesburg and Tshwane.
“Usually, children get two doses of the measles vaccination (at six and 12 months)… Depending on the vaccination, it usually provides 97% coverage, so you can be immune life-long or the immunity can wean off.”
– Professor Talitha Croxley, School of Nursing – University of Western Cape
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the discussion.