The Free State Department of Health is urging families to vaccinate children as efforts continue to contain a measles outbreak affecting communities.
The Free State Department of Health has renewed its call for parents and guardians to ensure that children are fully vaccinated against measles as health officials continue managing an outbreak in the Lejweleputswa District.
According to the department, 93 laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been recorded in the district as of week 29. The outbreak was first identified on 23 February 2025 after a positive case was detected in the private healthcare sector.
Since then, health authorities have implemented a range of interventions aimed at limiting the spread of the disease and protecting vulnerable communities.
The most affected area remains Matjhabeng, which accounts for 42 of the confirmed cases. The Nala area has also experienced an increase in infections, prompting additional response measures and community engagement initiatives.
While the outbreak in Mangaung has officially been declared over, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely in Lejweleputswa, where sporadic cases have been reported between weeks 20 and 29.
The department said its primary focus remains on communities with lower vaccination rates, particularly in Matjhabeng and Nala.
To strengthen outbreak management, response teams have been mobilised and additional awareness campaigns have been rolled out. Information, education and communication materials have been distributed to encourage vaccination and improve public understanding of measles prevention.
Health officials have also worked to improve immunisation monitoring systems and ensure the collection of blood samples for laboratory testing where required.
The department has collaborated with community leaders and the South African Police Service to strengthen awareness efforts and support local outbreak response activities.
All confirmed measles cases have received appropriate medical care, including Vitamin A supplementation and ongoing monitoring for symptoms and complications associated with the disease.
The Free State Department of Health has urged residents to remain vigilant and ensure vaccinations are up to date, noting that immunisation remains one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of measles and protect community health.
