Health Department Activates Response Measures Amid Isolated Incident
A 47-year-old woman from Walmer in the Eastern Cape is currently isolated in a local hospital with a suspected case of cholera. The Eastern Cape Department of Health has taken immediate action, activating outbreak response and health promotion teams as a precaution.
Isolation and Monitoring
The patient has been admitted to Livingstone Hospital in Gqeberha and is under isolation. Health authorities are closely monitoring her condition while awaiting toxigenicity results from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD).
“The team will work with the municipality to conduct contact tracing.”
Investigation and Precautionary Measures
Sizwe Kupelo, the provincial health spokesperson, mentioned that the patient, who resides with a minor, has a history of attending a funeral a week ago. However, she has not traveled outside the city. The health department is coordinating with the municipality for contact tracing.
Negative Results for Cholera in Water Samples
As part of their proactive measures, health environmental services have tested samples from wastewater treatment sources. Fortunately, the results have returned negative for cholera. Kupelo emphasized that no other cases or illnesses have been reported in the area.
“Members of the public are urged to practice good hygiene, washing hands with soap, and safe water. They must be sure of drinking clean and safe water.”
Cholera Symptoms and Spread
Cholera symptoms include watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. The health department reminds the public that if left untreated, cholera can be fatal. The disease can spread through contaminated food and water.
In conclusion, the health department urges residents to maintain good hygiene practices and ensures access to clean and safe water to prevent the potential spread of cholera.
