More cholera deaths recorded

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The National Department of Health has confirmed an increased number of deaths related to cholera with Gauteng accounting for 29 while two come from Mpumalanga and Free State each.

Data released by the Department shows that the country has recorded a total cumulative number of 166 laboratory-confirmed cases and 202 suspected infections of cholera in five provinces between 1 February and 6 June 2023.

The statistics reveal that the majority of cases were recorded in Gauteng, which accounts for at least 92% or 152 cases, while Free State accounts for 5%, translating to nine infections.

This is also as the waterborne disease has been said to have spread to the other provinces, with the North West reporting three infections and one each in Limpopo and Mpumalanga.

The ages of patients in Gauteng range from one to 91 years, while in in the Free State the ages range from 10 to 50 years.

So far, more than 600 people with suspected cholera symptoms have been seen in Gauteng and Free State hospitals.

“The setting-up of a well-equipped temporary field health facility, Kanana Cholera Treatment Centre, which is the epicentre in Hammanskraal, has not only relieved pressure at Jubilee Hospital but also contributed to improved health-seeking behaviour amongst community members with suspected cholera symptoms.”

Meanwhile, over 200 people have been seen at the makeshift hospital.

The department said the facility has been operating 24/7 since 26 May.

“The Department of Health, working with various stakeholders continue to make significant progress in response to the cholera outbreak in some parts of the country to contain the spread of the disease and save lives, while the investigations into the cause of the outbreaks are ongoing.”