Decrease in infant mortality in South Africa
There has been a drop in the infant mortality rate in South Africa, according to the Institute of
Race Relations. It has found that with the roll out social grants, the rise in immunisations and the
decrease in severe child malnutrition, more babies and children under a year old are surviving.
South Africa wins award for fight against malaria
Africa is making strides in the fight against malaria. While there is still work to be done, and the battle continues, countries were honoured for what they have done so far. And South Africa was one of the 14 to have been awarded for its work to eradicate the deadly disease.
World Aids Day: five things you need to know
Today is World Aids Day, the day on which the world commemorates the global effects of the
HIV/Aids pandemic. It is also a day to mark the continuation of the fight against the stigma that
surrounds the disease, as well as to educate people about prevention and treatment
programmes.
South Africa marks World Aids Day
Today is World Aids Day. South African Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa marked the day by acknowledging the strides the country had made in its successful treatment programme, while calling for more action. The country's theme is "Towards an HIV-Free Generation: Rise. Act. Protect. Zero".
South African men show their support for Movember
Many South African men joined the international campaign Movember to become walking and
talking billboards for men's health issues. The annual campaign encourages men to ditch the
razor and grow their facial hair as a fundraising initiative and to promote public conversation.
South Africa to manufacture pneumonia vaccine
A vital vaccine to prevent infection by bacteria that causes pneumonia will be made in South
Africa following a partnership launched by Science and Technology Minister Naledi Pandor
between the government, Pfizer and the Biovac Institute. Prevenar 13 prevents pneumococcal
infection.
Global malaria deaths drop 60% over the last 15 years
Global malaria control is one of the great public health success stories of this century, but while
it has been tamed, it has not been defeated, according to the WHO director-general. A joint
report by Unicef and WHO found malaria deaths had decreased globally by 60% since 2000.
South Africa tots up population wins
HIV infections are down, life expectancy is up; more people are living longer and infant mortality
is declining. Statistics South Africa released its mid-year population estimates report, adding its
weight to figures from UNAids that the country is making strides against HIV and Aids.
Work goes ahead on Mandela children’s hospital
The Nelson Mandela Children's Hospital will be completed in February 2016, when it will be
handed over for fittings and finishings. It is expected to open its doors for patients towards the
end of next year. Recruitment is also under way to staff the institute.
Global recognition for South African lab
The National Health Laboratory Service has been nominated for the European Quality awards in
the health care category, in recognition of its high standards and leading position in pathology
and diagnostic services. The winner will be announced in Switzerland this week.