2 cases of cholera in Limpopo

The Limpopo Department of Health yesterday confirmed that two Zimbabwean men, aged 43 and 27, went to the Musina and Helene Franz hospitals with cholera-like symptoms.

“Immediate measures were taken to ensure the patients’ admission and treatment, in accordance with established protocols,” the department’s spokesperson, Neil Shikwambana, said in a statement yesterday.

“Our medical teams are closely monitoring their condition and providing the necessary medical care to facilitate their recovery,” he added.

On Saturday, the Polokwane Review reported that the risk of a cholera outbreak in migrant hotspots, such as the city, was high as a result of cases being recently reported in Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Zambia.

The National Department of Health, in collaboration with the Border Management Authority, has intensified health screening at Beitbridge border post to mitigate against the imported cholera cases from Zimbabwe.

The border authority said that on Sunday, 25 000 people were processed at the Beitbridge Border Post. Many of the incoming and outgoing registered migrants come from affected countries.

Cholera is an intestinal infection caused by Vibrio cholerae. South Africa battled a cholera outbreak last year, that started in February and over the subsequent months was detected in several provinces. According to the health department, 1 073 people across the country showed symptoms, Of these, 198 were laboratory-confirmed between February 1 and July 4. An unconfirmed number were foreign nationals.

Highly infectious disease

Cholera is a highly infectious and potentially life-threatening disease, with the most common symptoms including severe diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration.

If left untreated, cholera can lead to severe complications and even death.

Shikwambana said that cholera is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water and it’s therefore crucial for people to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating or preparing food.

“It is recommended to only consume properly cooked food and drink safe, treated water.

“We urge the public to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly seek medical attention if they or anyone they know experience symptoms consistent with cholera. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital in minimising the impact of the disease and preventing its spread,” he added.

The health department says people can save the WhatsApp number 060 012 3456 for updates on health, or contact National AIDS Helpline 0800 012 322 or e-mail: info@aidshelpline.org.za