South Africa records 3,462 measles cases amid falling vaccination
South Africa has recorded 3,462 laboratory-confirmed measles cases since January 2026, with 70.9% of cases among children aged 1-14, amid falling routine immunisation. The health department reported that the share of completely unvaccinated infants rose from 12.1% in 2017 to 36.3% between January and April 2026, first-dose coverage among under-ones fell from 87% in 2021 to 67% in 2025, and hexavalent coverage declined from 87% to 60.5%. Officials warned of concurrent diphtheria, pertussis and nearly 400 rubella cases, noted imported polio strains in Cape Town wastewater, and urged catch-up campaigns and stronger surveillance to prevent wider outbreaks.
Unvaccinated infants rose from 12.1% to 36.3% in early 2026.
Context
Vaccination rates have fallen across all 52 districts and unvaccinated infants rose to 36.3% in early 2026. The health department reported outbreaks and plans national catch-up campaigns and enhanced surveillance.
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