Cholera

No Cholera found in Gauteng rivers. Image: Zimoja

Cholera not detected in Gauteng rivers

The department of Health investigated the possibility of Cholera in rivers after there three people were baptised in the Jukskei River.

Cholera

No Cholera found in Gauteng rivers. Image: Zimoja

According to the Health Department, samples from two rivers suspected of being responsible for new cholera cases in Gauteng have come back negative.

ALSO READ: What you need to know about cholera

NO CHOLERA FOUND IN IN RIVERS

The department investigated three recent cases recorded in people who had attended a baptism in the Jukskei River.

Department spokesperson Foster Mogale says despite the suspected rivers being now cleared, this does not mean the water is clean or safe for drinking or food preparation.

ALSO READ: Cholera outbreak in Mozambique after Cyclone Freddy

RISE OF CASES IN GAUTENG

Last week, the Department of Health said it was now concerned about the rise of cases in Gauteng. There have been 11 confirmed cases recorded in Gauteng and it was reported that one person died.

“Of course, currently, the cases are detected in Gauteng, especially under the City of Johannesburg in Diepsloot and Ekurhuleni. That does not mean other provinces are immune”.

ALSO READ: WHO on cholera cases in Africa

“People travel from one province to another, one country to another. And currently our neighbouring countries like Malawi, Zambia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe are battling with an outbreak of cholera.”

Mozambique is now facing a cholera outbreak after Cyclone Freddy hit the country for a second time. There were over 19,000 confirmed cases of cholera across the country from 27 March.

ALSO READ: Government now monitoring the Cholera outbreak

About a month ago, the World Health Organisation said that while cholera cases are now falling across Africa, the number of deaths remains stable.

According to WHO, heavy rainfall in Malawi, now as well as its neighbours South Africa and Zambia, is fuelling the spread of the disease. Medical teams are facing increased difficulties operating in areas where downpours have damaged roads and health infrastructure.