In the wake of some cases of diphtheria being confirmed in the Western Cape, the City of Cape Town has urged parents to vaccinate their kids to ensure they are protected from contracting the disease.
With schools set to reopen soon, it has become crucial to ensure kids are immunised against any viruses. Here’s what to do to ensure your child’s vaccinations are up to date.
PARENTS URGED TO VACCINATE KIDS BEFORE SCHOOLS REOPEN
The City of Cape Town health department issued a statement on 7 January 2025, urging parents to vaccinate their children before they go back to school.
The statement read: “The recent Diphtheria outbreak underscores the importance of timely vaccinations. City Health appeals to parents to make sure their child’s vaccinations is on their ‘to-do’ list before schools and educare centres reopen.”
City Health also said various outreaches had been carried out to ramp up vaccinations. These currently stand at a 90% rate in the City.
‘WE HAVE A DUTY TO ENSURE THAT EACH AND EVERY CHILD IS PROTECTED’
Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, the Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, also implored parents to do the necessary. This is to ensure the safety and health of their children.
Van der Ross said: “I am pleased that we are achieving our immunisation targets. But it is critical that we maintain and even improve on our coverage, to better protect vulnerable groups in our communities.
“The recent increase in diphtheria cases is a serious concern. Diphtheria is a preventable but life-threatening disease, and ensuring that every child is vaccinated is critical to safeguarding their health and the well-being of our communities.
“Soon, children will be back at school and crèche, where they’ll come into contact with other children. We have a duty to ensure that each and every child is protected. By keeping up to date with their vaccination schedule. If your child has missed any vaccinations, I urge you to visit your nearest City Health clinic without delay.”
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO VACCINATE KIDS
There are a few documents required for immunisation. These include the parent’s or caregiver’s ID, the child’s birth certificate and their Road To Health Booklet (RTHB).
The City further stated that parents can take their kids to the nearest clinic to get these vaccinations for free. “Parents can visit any facility or make an appointment to avoid the queues. Wellness pop-up sites and open days also provide convenient opportunities for vaccination,” it concluded.
ARE YOUR CHILD’S VACCINATIONS UP TO DATE?
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