Measles-Rubella Mass Vaccination Campaign for Gauteng

The Gauteng Department of Health will be conducting a province-wide Measles-Rubella Mass Vaccination Campaign from 4 August to 12 September 2025.

The campaign targets all children aged 6 months to 15 years, regardless of their current vaccination status. Whether the road to health booklet or card is available or not, the vaccine will be given.

Parents and caregivers are strongly encouraged to take their children to their nearest healthcare facility for vaccination or to provide written consent for vaccination at schools and early childhood development centres (crèches).

Why is this campaign important?

• South Africa introduced the Rubella Vaccine into the national immunisation schedule in 2024, in combination with the Measles vaccine.
• Many children have not yet received the combined Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine and remain vulnerable to Rubella infection.
• Measles and Rubella are highly contagious viruses that spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person.
• The incubation period is typically 10 to 14 days before symptoms appear.

Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Rash
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red eyes
• Fatigue

If not treated, these diseases can lead to serious complications such as:

• Blindness
• Ear infections
• Encephalitis (brain infection) and death

The Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Health, Councillor Mashabela, said that protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases is a shared responsibility. By vaccinating your child, you not only safeguard their health but also help prevent outbreaks in our communities.

For more information, please visit your local clinic or contact your nearest health facility.

Cllr Tshegofatso Mashabela

MMC for Health