Third Cholera case in Joburg confirmed
The Gauteng Department of Health has reported the third confirmed case of Cholera in Johannesburg.
The latest case was reported on Tuesday, February 7, and is that of the husband of the first confirmed patient (Malawi-sisters).
The patient presented symptoms at a health facility and was immediately admitted for further tests on February 4. He is currently in stable condition.
The department has previously reported two other Cholera cases on February 1 and 3 in Johannesburg.
The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, has called on residents not to panic and reassured that the situation is under control.
“The situation is under control. Our outbreak response teams have been activated and we have increased surveillance efforts. The Gauteng Department of Health is working closely with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, World Health Organisation and the National Department of Health to closely monitor the Cholera cases,” said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.
The department is urging the public to visit their nearest health facility if they present with mild to severe and watery diarrhea and dehydration symptoms.
Furthermore, they are emphasizing the importance of proper hand-hygiene, which includes washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after using the bathroom and when preparing or eating food.
The department has activated outbreak response teams and increased surveillance efforts in collaboration with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), World Health Organisation (WHO), and the National Department of Health to monitor the Cholera cases.
Cholera is an acute diarrhoeal infection caused by ingestion of food or water contaminated with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. Cholera remains a global threat to public health and an indicator of inequity and lack of social development.
The Gauteng Department of Health is working hard to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.