Picture: Northern Cape MEC for Health, Nontobeko Vilakazi
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
2 October 2026 – The Northern Cape Department of Health has recorded 767 laboratory-confirmed measles cases since October 2025, prompting intensified surveillance, contact tracing and vaccination campaigns across affected districts. The department said the continued rise in cases had placed it on high alert as it worked with districts to strengthen the response.
THE Northern Cape MEC for Health, Nontobeko Vilakazi said the outbreak has revealed a concerning immunity gap in the province, particularly among children who are either not fully vaccinated or have never received the measles or measles/rubella vaccine. Vilakazi said the highest numbers reported by the department are in the ZF Mgcawu and John Taolo Gaetsewe Districts, with 303 and 282 cases respectively.
“Frances Baard has recorded 156 cases, while Pixley ka Seme has reported 27. The second-dose Measles/Rubella immunisation coverage remains below 70% in all affected districts. The low coverage had contributed to the increase in cases, including infections among some people who had previously been vaccinated and some adults.
“In John Taolo Gaetsewe, targeted vaccination campaigns involving close contacts at schools have resulted in more than 4 700 people being vaccinated. Inter-facility immunisation has also started, with measles-rubella booster doses being offered to people of all ages regardless of their previous vaccination history,” she said.
Vilakazi further said in ZF Mgcawu, the outbreak previously affecting Postmasburg had ended after 42 days without a new case. She added that attention has now shifted to Upington in the Dawid Kruiper Municipality, where 204 cases have been reported and Kai! Garib Municipality, which has recorded 37 cases.
“Pixley ka Seme, which has recorded 27 cases from Griekwastad in the Siyancuma Local Municipality, has also completed its outbreak period after 42 days without a laboratory-confirmed case. More than 444 asymptomatic close contacts in the municipality have been vaccinated.
“Frances Baard remains on high alert, with health teams conducting immediate contact tracing and vaccinating close contacts. Health facilities have also been instructed to isolate suspected cases and vaccinate close contacts immediately,” said Vilakazi.
She said people infected with measles should isolate at home for at least seven days to prevent further transmission. Vilakazi said suspected cases are treated symptomatically and provided with Vitamin A supplements to reduce the risk of complications.
“We must close the immunity gap in our communities and prevent further spread of the highly contagious diseases, particularly measles and rubella. We urge parents and guardians to ensure children are vaccinated and to cooperate with health teams conducting school and community campaigns,” she concluded.
