UPDATE: Measles outbreak forces school closures in Delportshoop

THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Education has confirmed a significant measles outbreak among learners in Delportshoop.

In a joint media statement with the provincial Department of Health on Tuesday, the Education Department said it is aware of a measles outbreak at Delportshoop Combined School, with the number of affected learners skyrocketing from 16 to 130, primarily among Grade 4 to 6 learners.

In response to the outbreak, the department said it is collaborating with the Department of Health to contain the spread of the virus in Delportshoop.

As a precautionary measure, Delportshoop Combined School, Delportshoop Intermediate School, Frances Mohapanele Primary School and Dikgatlong High School have been closed with immediate effect until Friday, August 23.

The department said that only Grade 12 learners will be allowed to return to school to write their preparatory examinations, while the rest of the learners are expected to resume classes on Monday, August 26.

To mitigate the spread of measles, the department said that all four schools will undergo disinfection procedures on Wednesday. Learners are also encouraged to wear masks.

The Department of Health will meanwhile launch an awareness campaign in the affected areas and commence vaccination against measles on Monday.

Parents are urged to closely monitor their children and keep them at home or in isolation to prevent further transmission within the community.

This joint effort by the Northern Cape departments of Education and Health aims to safeguard the health and well-being of the learners and the broader community.