South Africa has identified at least 46 suspected cases of cholera and confirmed five laboratory cases between January 1st and February 1st, 2024.
Speaking to the media, Health Minister Joe Phaahla disclosed that three cases were imported from neighbouring Zimbabwe, which is currently dealing with a cholera outbreak.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in the week ending on January 21st, 2024, 1499 new suspected cholera cases were reported across all provinces of South Africa. Notably, two documented cases involved siblings aged 11 and 13 with no history of travel to areas experiencing cholera outbreaks, indicating a potential risk of contact with known cholera cases.
“Four of these cases were detected in hospitals in Limpopo, at Musina and Helene Frans Hospital, and the other one was confirmed at Helen Joseph Hospital in Gauteng.
“The local outbreak response teams have been activated to enhance investigations, conduct active case finding and contact tracing, determine the source of infection in cases with no travel history, and implement control measures to prevent further local transmission,” said Dr Phaahla.
Phaahla urged the public to remain calm but stressed the importance of heightened vigilance, especially among children at home and in schools, to maintain proper personal hygiene practices.
He further stated that the country remains on high alert for potential community-level surges in cases.
By Thembisa Shologu
