Gauteng deploys mobile clinics to combat measles outbreak

The Gauteng Department of Health has added seven new vehicles to its Integrated School Health Programme (ISHP) fleet to help control the growing measles outbreak in the province.

Mobile health services reach underserved schools to curb the measles outbreak

Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko officially handed over the mobile vaccination vehicles on Friday during a ceremony at Inxiweni Primary School in Tembisa. She emphasised that the department is prioritising delivering services directly to the children who need them most.

“This is more than a handover, it is a message to our young people that their health matters.,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

“ We are taking services directly to schools, especially in underserved areas, to ensure every learner receives the care they need.”

The ISHP teams, who will use the vehicles, will provide various services, including health screenings, immunisations, and health education, to school learners across the province.

Immunity gaps in major cities raise alarm

The province launched the new rollout as concern grows over low immunisation coverage in major metros. According to the department, coverage for the second dose of the measles vaccine remains below 75% in Johannesburg and Tshwane, short of the 95% threshold needed to prevent outbreaks.

“These vehicles will help us reach more learners with lifesaving vaccines,” said the MEC.

“We must close the immunity gap and stop the spread of measles and rubella.”

Nkomo-Ralehoko added that the expanded mobile services are a timely response to the current outbreak and a long-term investment in public health.

Protecting learners through improved access

The department aims to reduce barriers to immunisation and catch up on missed vaccinations by taking health services directly into schools. The mobile units will boost the province’s capacity to reach children in remote and under-resourced areas with limited access to clinics.