13/03/2026
Pretoria Parents on Alert: Measles Outbreak Confirmed in Tshwane
Health authorities have confirmed a measles outbreak in the City of Tshwane, with 16 laboratory-confirmed cases reported so far, including 10 cases recorded in the past four weeks. This has raised concern among many Pretoria parents as community transmission continues.
According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), 491 measles cases have been confirmed across South Africa between 29 December 2025 and 1 March 2026. While the Western Cape currently has the highest number of cases, Gauteng has also seen outbreaks in Johannesburg and Tshwane.
👶 Most cases are among children aged 1–14, although infections in people 15 years and older are also increasing. Health experts warn that immunity gaps and missed vaccinations may be contributing to the spread.
⚠️ Common symptoms of measles include:
• Fever
• A red or blotchy rash
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red or sore eyes
Doctors advise that measles should be suspected when a patient has fever, rash, and one of the “three C’s”: cough, coryza (runny nose), or conjunctivitis (red eyes).
🩺 What to do if symptoms appear:
• Keep the person away from school, crèche, work, or public spaces
• Contact a doctor or clinic immediately
• Inform the healthcare provider in advance if you suspect measles so precautions can be taken
• Seek urgent medical care if symptoms worsen or complications develop
✅ What parents should do now:
• Check your child’s Road to Health card or vaccination booklet
• Ensure routine measles vaccinations are up to date
• Take children under 5 who missed a dose to a clinic for a catch-up vaccine as soon as possible
Community awareness and timely vaccination remain the best protection against further spread. Let’s stay informed, look out for one another, and protect our children and community. 💙
