Health Minister Dr Joe Phaahla is worried over the increasing number of measles cases in the country.He said the age range of people affected ranges from  2 months up to 42 years. In his media briefing, he said four provinces in the country were affected.Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West and and Gauteng have recorded significant cases since December started.

FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH SYMPTOMS

He said this was worrying since it's the festive season and risk of contact is likely to increase. "Limpopo is the highest with 89 cases, Mpumalanga 40, Gauteng 6 and North West 3." Dr Phaahla said it's crucial that people familiarise themselves with measles symptoms. "Patients usually present signs of fever or rash. They may also have one or more symptoms, including a cough, red eyes, and a runny nose."

COMPLICATIONS

He said signs that show that the measles is at an advanced and complications stage include pneumonia, diarrhoea, dehydration, encephalitis, blindness and death. "Measles complications are severe in malnourished children and young infants under two years of age. However older persons who have not vaccinated can also be affected." He urged clinicians to check children's road to health booklets if they got vaccinated for measles and said they should look out for symptoms in their patients. Dr Phaahla announced that the National Mass Measles Immunisation Campaign, supported by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is planned for 6 to 17 February next year.