The Gauteng health department has confirmed that another individual has tragically lost their life after presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms in Hammanskraal, located north of Pretoria. This brings the total death toll to 10 as of Sunday. In response to the situation, Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, paid a visit to the Jubilee District Hospital in Hammanskraal on Sunday to assess the gravity of the situation.
Initially, 50 people sought medical attention at the hospital on Saturday, reporting complaints of gastrointestinal symptoms. However, the number has significantly risen to 95 individuals across various areas including Kanana, Suurman, Majaneng, and Greenfield in Gauteng. These affected individuals have exhibited symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.
The Gauteng health department issued a statement addressing the situation, highlighting their proactive response. Provincial and district outbreak response teams have been dispatched to Jubilee Hospital and the affected areas to conduct a thorough investigation into the source of the diarrheal disease. Additionally, their presence aims to raise awareness and educate communities about preventive measures.
To gather more information, stool specimens have been collected from some of the affected individuals, and laboratory results are expected over the weekend. The outbreak response teams remain on high alert, continuing their advocacy and educational efforts, particularly focusing on the areas most affected by the outbreak.
In an unfortunate development, the cumulative number of confirmed cholera cases has risen to 37. Four additional cases have been detected in Gauteng, while the Vredefort and Parys areas in the Free State have reported seven new cases. These findings underscore the urgency of the situation and the need for swift action to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the disease.
