LIMPOPO – The Limpopo Department of Health has moved to allay public fears following alarming social media reports alleging children in Seshego died from drinking contaminated water, with claims linking the incidents to cholera and other waterborne diseases.

Department spokesperson Neil Shikwambana confirmed that hospitals in the area were placed on high alert from December 24 to closely monitor patients with gastroenteritis symptoms like diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

Spike in cases but no child deaths

While a spike in cases was recorded during the festive period, the department clarified that no paediatric deaths related to gastroenteritis have occurred.

Between December 19 and 26, Seshego Hospital treated 122 patients for such symptoms, admitted 26, and discharged 96.

All stool samples tested for pathogens, including cholera-causing organisms, returned negative.

“Three deaths occurred in adult wards before December 20, but none were linked to waterborne diseases,” Shikwambana stated. “There were no deaths of children related to gastroenteritis recorded at both facilities.”

Water quality compliant

Environmental health teams conducted water quality tests in the area.

While water from main municipal sources was found to be compliant, temporary challenges linked to recent heavy rainfall were identified and addressed as a precaution.

Ongoing monitoring, including daily chlorine checks and further sampling, has been intensified.

The department urged residents to rely on official information, practise good hygiene, boil water as a precaution, and seek medical care if symptoms arise.

Health promotion campaigns on water safety and hygiene are currently underway in identified areas.