GEORGE NEWS - Garden Route District Municipality confirmed today, Thursday 28 March, that several suspected cases of Rubella, more commonly known as German measles, have been reported in George.

Herman Pieters, head of communications, said it is a "pocket outbreak" and suspected cases were in Thembalethu, Borchards, Rosedale, Parkdene, Conville and Pacaltsdorp. 

Since 19 March, eight suspected cases were reported. Five were confirmed to be Rubella.

Children under the age of 13 were affected. "What could have contributed could have been close contact at playgroups, afterschool facilities and creches as well as not seeking immediate medical care for children who presented with symptoms, thereby delaying isolation. There is also a lack of knowledge, and symptoms could be mistaken for flu," said Pieters.

The illness is caused by the Rubella virus and it is highly contagious. Symptoms include fever and a rash. 

"While it is typically a mild illness in children and adults, it can be very harmful if contracted by a pregnant woman."

Pieters said in an effort to contain the spread, environmental health practitioners were dispatched to do home visits and visits to creches to provide health and hygiene education. 

"The surveillance and prevention of communicable diseases is one of the key performance areas of the GRDM's health services."

Pamphlets were also handed out at taxi ranks, shops and other businesses for further distribution to the public. 

"The public must be vigilant to the signs and symptoms and must visit the nearest health care facility when suspecting the disease."

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