Measles Outbreak in Tshwane 2025: Symptoms, Vaccine Info & What South African Parents Must Know
- Samantha Pieterse
- Jun 23
- 6 min read
Updated: Jul 9
Tshwane is Facing a Measles Outbreak: What Parents Need to Know
With over 180 confirmed cases across Gauteng and hotspots like Mamelodi and Winterveld experiencing sharp spikes, health officials are urging families to check their vaccination records and be aware of the signs. Measles isn’t just a harmless childhood illness; it’s highly contagious and can lead to serious complications. Here’s what every Tshwane parent needs to know about symptoms, prevention, and where to get free vaccines right now.
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What’s Happening With the Measles Outbreak in Tshwane?
(2025 Update)
As of mid-June 2025, the Gauteng Department of Health has confirmed 181 measles cases across the province since the beginning of the year. Tshwane (Pretoria) is now one of the most severely affected regions. Two key hotspots have emerged: Mamelodi, with more than 35 confirmed cases, and Winterveld, with at least 10 infections reported.
Health officials have launched an urgent response, especially in these communities where vaccination rates are low. The virus is spreading rapidly among unvaccinated children and teenagers. Thus, there are city-wide vaccination drives, along with increased public health monitoring. Parents and caregivers in Tshwane are urged to check immunization records and act quickly if symptoms appear.
Why is Measles Spreading in Tshwane?
One of the main reasons for the current measles outbreak in Tshwane is low vaccination coverage. This is particularly true regarding the second dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. Health officials report coverage has dropped below the 75% threshold for measles immunity. This is significantly lower than the 95% threshold required to achieve herd immunity and stop measles from spreading in the community.
This decline in immunization affects not just Tshwane but also Johannesburg and other parts of Gauteng. Without widespread vaccine protection, measles can spread swiftly, especially in schools, early childhood centers, and densely populated areas where children come into close contact. Many children in these areas have missed the crucial second dose of the MMR vaccine due to service disruptions, misinformation, or vaccine hesitancy.
Who is Affected by the Measles Outbreak in Tshwane?
Although often seen as a childhood illness, the current measles outbreak is impacting both children and adults. Young children are particularly vulnerable, especially those under five or with incomplete vaccinations. However, older children, teenagers, and even adults can become seriously ill if they haven’t received both doses of the MMR vaccine.
To contain the outbreak, the City of Tshwane and the Gauteng Department of Health have launched an emergency measles vaccination drive that started on June 5, 2025. This mass immunization drive targets all children between 6 months and 15 years of age, regardless of their previous vaccination status. The campaign is being rolled out in schools, clinics, and community centers. Mobile vaccination teams are reaching informal settlements and high-risk areas.
Symptoms of Measles: What to Look For in Children and Adults
Recognizing the early symptoms of measles is crucial to preventing the spread, especially during the current outbreak. Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and progress through distinct phases.
Early Measles Symptoms (Before the Rash)
These initial signs can often be mistaken for a common cold or flu:
High fever (over 38.5°C)
Runny nose
Dry cough
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Sore throat
Fatigue and irritability
⚠️ Classic Measles Sign: Koplik Spots are tiny white or bluish spots inside the cheeks or mouth. They appear 1–2 days before the rash and are a hallmark of measles.
Measles Rash Stage
A red, blotchy maculopapular rash appears 3–5 days after initial symptoms.
It usually starts on the face and behind the ears, spreading to the torso, arms, and legs.
The rash may be itchy and is often accompanied by peeling skin as it fades.
How Long Do Measles Symptoms Last?
Measles symptoms typically last 7 to 10 days. However, fatigue and immune suppression may last longer, especially in children.
If your child or another household member shows signs of measles, especially after known exposure or travel, it’s important to stay home and call us immediately.
Measles Complications: Why This Virus Can Be Serious
While measles might seem "just a rash and a fever," it’s actually one of the most contagious and potentially dangerous childhood illnesses. During outbreaks like the one in Tshwane, the risks increase, especially for young children, pregnant women, adults who missed their vaccines, and anyone who is immunocompromised.
Most people will recover without issue, but for some, measles can cause serious and even life-threatening complications.
Common and Severe Complications of Measles Include:
Pneumonia
The most common cause of death from measles, especially in young children. This condition can develop quickly and may require hospitalization.
Diarrhea and Severe Dehydration
A simple fever can become dangerous when vomiting or diarrhea leads to fluid loss, particularly in babies and toddlers.
Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)
Measles often leads to ear infections, which can be painful and may cause temporary or even permanent hearing problems if untreated.
Acute Encephalitis
A rare but very serious inflammation of the brain that can cause seizures, brain damage, or death. This affects around 1 in every 1,000 measles cases.
Blindness or Vision Loss
In some cases, particularly where vitamin A deficiency is present, measles can lead to corneal damage and permanent blindness.
“Immune Amnesia”
This lesser-known complication means measles can erase the body’s memory of other past infections. This leaves children vulnerable to various illnesses for months after recovering.
Measles isn't just a "mild childhood illness." It’s highly contagious, easily preventable, but potentially very dangerous, especially when vaccination rates drop and communities lose herd immunity.
How to Prevent Measles
To effectively prevent measles, children should receive:
1st shot: 6 months old
2nd shot: 1 year old
3rd shot: 6 years old
The city is currently offering measles-rubella boosters in schools and healthcare centers for individuals of all ages.
A vaccination rate of 95% is required to prevent the spread of the virus. When this rate falls, outbreaks like the one in Tshwane become more likely.
What to Do If You Suspect Measles
If you or your child has any of the following symptoms:
A high fever
Persistent cough
Red or watery eyes
Rash or tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
Don't wait. These early signs can indicate measles amidst the current outbreak in Tshwane. It’s crucial to act quickly and responsibly.
Step 1: Seek Medical Care and Isolate Immediately
If you suspect measles:
Stay home and avoid contact with others, especially babies, elderly individuals, and pregnant women.
Call your clinic or doctor before arriving so precautions can be taken to protect other patients.
Avoid crèches, schools, and public spaces until you receive medical guidance.
Step 2: Check Your Vaccination Records
Ensure your child has received all MMR doses:
1st dose at 6 months
2nd dose at 1 year
3rd dose at 6 years
Even if you’re unsure or have missed a dose, it's not too late. Catch-up doses are safe and simple.
Step 3: Encourage Others to Get Vaccinated Too
Vaccination doesn’t just protect your child; it safeguards the entire community. When more people are vaccinated, it becomes harder for measles to spread, especially to those who cannot get vaccinated due to age or medical conditions.
Spread the word among your friends, your preschool WhatsApp group, and your family. The more people who learn about the outbreak and take action, the quicker we can stop it.
Protect your family. Support your community. Help us stop measles in its tracks.
How to Stay Safe During the Tshwane Measles Outbreak
The current measles outbreak in Tshwane is a reminder that even once-common illnesses can resurface when vaccination rates decline. But here’s the good news: measles is one of the most preventable diseases, and it’s not too late to protect your family.
If your child is under 15, take advantage of the free MMR boosters now offered in schools and clinics throughout Tshwane.
If your child has a fever, rash, or red eyes, act quickly. Contact us and keep them at home.
If you're unsure about vaccines, get informed. Misinformation spreads faster than the virus, but science (and decades of real-world use) supports the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine.
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