Zuko Komisa

German measles (Rubella) outbreak detected in the Northern Cape.
In the Pixley ka Seme district, there has been an outbreak of German measles, or Rubella, according to the Northern Cape Department of Health.
Congenital heart disease, cataracts, deafness, and other congenital abnormalities are among the congenital conditions that can result from congenital rubella syndrome. It is spread by oral contact, either directly or through droplets.
52 cases have been reported to the department thus far; 22 are in Phillipstown, 17 are in Hopetown, and 13 are in De Aar. Congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) is a condition caused by the rubella virus infecting the fetus.
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Healthcare professionals are urged to report and notify cases as well as be on the lookout for rubella symptoms.
“Presently no public health action is required following identification of cases as rubella, as no vaccine is available in the public sector. However, should measles be suspected, ring vaccination with measles vaccine should be conducted on all contacts under five years of age,”
“Once the rubella vaccine is available, ring vaccination according to the updated vaccinators manual, should be implemented on clinical suspicion of both measles and rubella to contain the infection in line with the global measles-rubella eradication agenda.
Northern Cape Department of Health
READ THE FULL STATEMENT HERE:
— Northern Cape Department of Health (@nc_doh) November 15, 2023
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