National Health Department urges pregnant women to guard against rubella

CAPE TOWN - The National Health Department is urging all expectant moms in their first trimester to guard against rubella.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases has confirmed a rubella outbreak in South Africa, with the Western Cape and Gauteng having the largest infection numbers.

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The contagious infection largely affects children under 15 and pregnant women. Symptoms of the viral infection include fever, rash, runny nose, red eyes and coughing.

The National Health Department’s acting Deputy Director Ramphelane Morewane says any pregnant woman who picks up on symptoms should seek medical attention.

“If people who are pregnant in the first trimester. Also, if they pick up any signs they must go to the nearest health facility for treatment. Those that have not been vaccinated, we urge them to report to the health facilities for vaccination."