Two provinces now affected by cholera outbreak in water

Two provinces now affected by cholera outbreak in water

Breakfast with Martin Bester spoke to the spokesperson for the Minister of Health, Mr Doctor Tshwale, about the cholera outbreak in the Hammanskraal area.

Tap water
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An outbreak of cholera has killed at least 12 people near South Africa's capital of Pretoria, health authorities confirmed, urging the public to be "extra vigilant".

The Spokesperson for the Minister of Health, Mr Doctor Tshwale, confirmed that it is a serious issue affecting this area. The outbreak has been traced to water feeding into household taps.

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According to the spokesperson, the source of the outbreak has not yet been confirmed.

Mr Tshwale also confirmed that the outbreak is not only in the Hammanskraal area in Tshwane, but also in the Free State province. 

The provincial health department says massive efforts are also underway to curb the spread of diarrhoea and cholera in Vredefort and Parys, and further across the whole of the province.

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Officials warn that this could lead to other parts of the country since the Free State is in the centre of the country.

Here are the symptoms of cholera to look out for:

  • Diarrhoea
  • Vomiting
  • Thirst
  • Cramps
  • Restlessness or irritability

 Selby Bokaba, Acting Group Head: Communication, Marketing and Events in Tshwane, warns that people should not drink tap water.

Tune in to the 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', weekdays from 06:00 - 09:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.

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