Metro urges vigilance after new Gauteng cholera cases

The four new cholera cases detected in Gauteng have been linked to baptismal events, according to the Tshwane health department.

The department asked Pretoria residents to be careful.

“Three cases were detected in Diepsloot and one in Katlehong,” a statement by the department read.

“Worth mentioning is that all four cases followed baptism ceremonies in the Jukskei and Klip rivers.”

Tshwane health MMC Rina Marx said her department has put in place various steps to fight the spread of the disease.

“The health department undertakes water sampling once a month from water sources such as streams, rivers, and dams across all seven provinces,” said Marx.

“Recently all samples taken in Tshwane have tested negative for cholera.”

Tshwane health care providers, however, remain on alert in cases where patients suffer severe diarrhoea.

“Cholera information pamphlets will be available soon to promote awareness,” Marx added.

Metro spokesperson Sipho Stuurman said cholera can be treated by oral or intravenous fluids if identified early and by antibiotics when severely.

Stuurman advised residents to do the following to prevent cholera:

– maintain good hand hygiene before eating, preparing food and after going to the toilet or changing nappies.

– cook food thoroughly.

– washed fruits and vegetables with safe, clean water.

“Pretoria residents are encouraged not to drink from or swim in rivers, streams or dams as the water from contaminated areas may flow into Tshwane,” Stuurman added.

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