The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has issued updates on the ongoing measles outbreak in the country. South Africa is currently experiencing a measles outbreak, with a significant increase in reported cases in recent months. The outbreak is a cause of concern as measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can lead to serious complications and even death, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
According to the NICD, there has been an increase in reported cases of measles in various provinces, with the majority of cases being reported among unvaccinated individuals. The NICD has urged members of the public to ensure that they and their children are up-to-date with their measles vaccinations and to seek medical attention if they suspect they may have contracted the disease. The NICD has also called on healthcare practitioners to be vigilant in identifying and managing cases of measles and to report suspected cases to the relevant authorities. Furthermore, it is recommended to follow the guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO) for managing measles cases.
Healthcare practitioners are advised to be vigilant in identifying and managing cases of measles, and to take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the disease. This includes ensuring that their patients are up-to-date with their measles vaccinations, implementing infection control measures in their workplaces, and reporting suspected cases of measles to the relevant authorities.
Practitioners are also advised to familiarise themselves with the clinical presentation of measles and to have a high index of suspicion for the disease in patients presenting with a fever and rash. It’s important for healthcare practitioners to stay informed about the latest guidelines and recommendations from public health authorities and to take a proactive approach to prevent the spread of the outbreak.
Practitioners can read the full report here.
Last Updated on 6 February 2023 by HPCSA Corporate Affairs