South Africa is recording a rise in measles cases, with health experts attributing the increase in part to low vaccination rates.
Data from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) shows that 3 891 measles cases have been recorded across the country since January.
The Western Cape has reported the highest number of new cases, followed by Limpopo, the Northern Cape and Gauteng. KwaZulu-Natal has recorded five cases, according to the NICD's latest report.
Despite the increase, infectious diseases expert Professor Jantjie Taljaard of Stellenbosch University says there is no reason for vaccinated members of the public to panic.
However, he warned that measles can be particularly dangerous for babies and other people who have not been immunised.
Taljaard said complications can include severe pneumonia, ear infections, deafness and blindness. In serious cases, the infection can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, which can be fatal.
He linked the increase in cases to gaps in vaccination coverage and stressed the importance of ensuring that children receive their recommended measles vaccinations.
Taljaard also defended the safety and effectiveness of the measles vaccine, saying extensive research involving millions of vaccinated people had found no unexpected safety concerns.
He urged the public to rely on established medical evidence when considering vaccination, particularly given the risks measles can pose to unvaccinated children.
Health authorities continue to monitor the spread of measles across the country as efforts to improve vaccination coverage remain a key part of preventing further outbreaks.