Health department intensifies action against severe malnutrition

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has intensified efforts to combat malnutrition amid identified cases of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children.

According to Motalatale Modiba, the head of communications for the GDoH, SAM is a critical public health issue that leads to extreme weight loss, muscle wasting, weakened immunity and developmental delays, leaving affected children more vulnerable to infections such as diarrhoea and tuberculosis.

“If left untreated, malnutrition can have devastating long-term effects, including stunted growth, impaired cognitive development and an increased risk of chronic diseases in adulthood,” said Modiba.

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This came after 1 467 cases were reported by the GDoH in the previous financial year, with 1 367 recovering in provincial hospitals. Tshwane, Joburg and Ekurhuleni recorded the highest incidences.

Alarmingly, many cases are diagnosed only when children are already in severe distress, often presenting with complications such as hypoglycaemia, hypothermia and sepsis.

“While malnutrition is preventable, early intervention is critical for saving lives. We urge parents, caregivers and communities to use health facilities for early screening and treatment,’’ explained Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko.

“Recognising the early signs of SAM, such as extreme thinness, loss of appetite, swelling in the feet or hands and developmental delays, is essential.

“Caregivers who suspect a child may be malnourished are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention at the nearest clinic,” she added.

The MEC stressed that the department has strengthened early detection and intervention programmes.

“Community health workers are doing home visits and screening children at early childhood development centres using mid-upper arm circumference measurements. These efforts aim to identify children at risk before they reach a critical stage.”

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Nkomo-Ralehoko also stated that the department was prioritising nutrition education for families, emphasising the importance of healthy feeding practices.

“Parents are informed about the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months from birth and continuing breastfeeding with the addition of complementary food until two years and beyond.

“Providing the children with a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods containing essential nutrients for growth and development is emphasised through education to mothers and caregivers,” said the department.

Nkomo-Ralehoko shared that health professionals at the clinic level provide comprehensive support, including nutrition education, breastfeeding assistance, management of childhood illnesses using the Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses Strategy and therapeutic food supplements such as ready-to-use therapeutic foods, along with micronutrient supplementation, Vitamin A supplements and deworming.

She explained that for children with complications, timely referrals to hospitals ensure they receive care in line with the World Health Organisation’s 10 steps for the management of SAM.

“After hospital discharge, children continue to receive nutritional rehabilitation and monitoring at their nearest clinics to ensure sustained recovery,” said Nkomo-Ralehoko.

Despite intensified efforts, the department acknowledges that socioeconomic factors, such as food insecurity and poor feeding practices, significantly contribute to the rise in malnutrition cases.

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Many households struggle to provide sufficient nutritious meals, leading to unhealthy eating habits that replace essential nutrition.

The GDoH is collaborating with the Department of Social Development by referring children for social grants and food parcels.

The GDoH emphasises that combating malnutrition requires a collective effort. Families and communities must promote proper feeding practices to protect children from the devastating effects of malnutrition.