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The campaign
South Africa's National Department of Health has embarked on their yearly campaign to raise awareness of polio and measles and to immunise all children under the age of 5 against these crippling, deadly diseases.The campaign has been divided into two rounds: from 29 April to 17 May a nationwide effort is made to immunise children against both polio and measles. The second leg of the campaign is focused on polio and runs from 17 to 28 June 2013.
Who needs it and where can they get it?
Children under five years will receive an additional dosage of polio drops and those from 9 to 59 months (under five years) will also receive an additonal dose of the measles vaccine. Professional nurses will make their round visits at schools, créches as well as daycare centres.
Parents will need to sign a consent form which needs to be presented to the healthcare worker in order for the child to receive the vaccinations. Keep in mind that you may also take your child to the local/nearest clinic. Vaccinations are absolutely FREE and your Road to Health Chart (baby cards) are not required.
Children's fingers will bemarked to show that they have received their vaccines.
What are measles?
Measles, also known as Rubella, is a highly infectious illness cause by the viral infection rubeuola virus. Some of the symptoms are slight fever, swollen nymph nodes in the armpits or the groin area. A rash of flat pink spots will develop after about two or three days, but isn't itchy at all. Some children may experience joint pains.
What is polio?
Polio is a highly contagious viral infection that could lead to breathing problems, paralysis and sometimes death if not treated properly. Those who are more prone to contracting the virus are pregnant women, children and those whose immune systems have been weakened by other medical conditions.
Syptoms range from fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, fatigue, back and neck pain, arm and leg stiffness, muscle tenderness and meningitis.
