The 1st round of measles and polio campaign has been ongoing throughout the country from the 12th April 2010 and will be continuing until the 23rd April 2010.   All children under 15 years are eligible for immunization in this campaign irrespective of their immunization status.

There is currently a measles outbreak in all provinces of South Africa. Measles is one of the most contagious diseases in human beings and remains one of the leading causes of death in the African region.

Though polio transmission has declined significantly in the world and South Africa, there are still countries neighbouring South Africa that still have polio circulating and this poses a risk for polio infection to children in South Africa. Polio is one of the most preventable, debilitating diseases for which there is a safe and cost effective vaccine.

The Department of Health would therefore like to urge all parents and caregivers who have still not vaccinated their children to visit the nearest clinic for vaccination. All children less than 15 are eligible for vaccination. You do not have to be a South African or possess a route to health card to be vaccinated in this campaign.

Who should be vaccinated?

Ø   All children from birth to 5 years will receive polio drops

Ø   All children aged 6 months and 15 years will receive a measles vaccine.

Ø   All children in these age groups need to be vaccinated even if they have been immunized before

The Department of Health would also like to express its appreciation to all those who heeded the call to vaccinate their children in the 1st week of this very important campaign. We also thank the thousands of health care workers, administrators and volunteers who have been participating in this campaign.

Despite all the hard work that has gone into the 1st week of the campaign, current information indicates that without any additional measures, the desired target of immunizing all 15 million children is not likely to be reached.

Please help protect our children from polio and measles!!

Dr Frew Benson

Cluster Manager: Communicable Diseases Control (CDC)

Enquiries: Charity Bhengu 083 679 7424

ISSUED BY NATIONAL DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH 0N 16 APRIL 2010