Gauteng warns of sharp fall in childhood vaccination rates

Province concerned as infant coverage drops

The Gauteng Department of Health has raised the alarm after childhood vaccination rates in the province declined, warning the fall could increase the risk of preventable disease outbreaks. The department said infant immunisation coverage fell from 83% to just over 75%, and that children under a year old have seen some of the largest declines.

Department points to missed clinic visits and consent barriers

Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said parents are given a full immunisation schedule after birth but many are not following through with clinic visits and vaccinations. He described the decline as being down to parents “not taking responsibility.”

“After birth, there is an immunisation schedule that is presented to parents.”

Mabona also highlighted challenges with school-based vaccination programmes, noting that the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine which the department said helps protect against cervical cancer cannot be administered at schools without parental consent.

“We need a consent form from the parents.”

Calls to check clinic cards and planned awareness drive

The department warned that children who miss scheduled vaccines are more vulnerable to illnesses that are usually preventable through routine immunisation, and urged parents to check clinic cards and make arrangements if any vaccinations were missed.

Mabona said the department plans to roll out awareness programmes, adding:

“We have a schedule of certain programs that we are going to be targeting certain communities.”

What the department is asking of parents

• Review the immunisation schedule given after a child’s birth.
• Check clinic cards for missed vaccinations.
• Provide consent for school-based HPV vaccination where required.

Date: 7 May 2026.