Suspected cases of diarrhoea in certain parts of the Municipal area are stabilising and there is no need for the public to panic. Following an intervention by the Municipality’s Health Officials, no new deaths have been reported so far.

Deputy Head of Communicable Disease Services, Dr Ayo Olowolagba said although there are new cases reported but the situation is well managed.

“Health officials in the eThekwini area are currently engaging in door to door campaigns to educate the public about hygiene, especially when preparing food, washing of hands, disposal of faecal materials and the whole package of primary health care services,” said Olowolagba

He said that during the period of April to July it is normal that such incidences of diarrhoea occur, but this time these were higher than normal which necessitated Health Authorities to issue an alert to the public. Mothers and care givers are advised to adhere to strict hygiene practices and use safe water all the times especially when preparing food for the babies.

Olowolagba said Health Care Workers on the ground are continuing their campaign of health promotion and information sharing on how to prepare and use oral rehydration solution whenever there is diarrheal at home, while seeking help from their clinics/ doctors to avoid dehydration which can seriously compromise the health of the patient.

“Next week the second round of the immunisation campaign will commence. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure that children are well immunised. This immunisation campaign was planned a long time ago and is not related to these incidents. If a child is sick or there are symptoms of diarrhoea, he or she should not be vaccinated.”

Parents are requested to cooperate with health care workers when the instruction of not vaccinating the child is given.

The Municipality is urging members of the public to immediately seek medical assistance if they present with symptoms.

For more information please contact Thabo Mofokeng on 031 311 4820/ 0827317456 or email: thabo1.mofokeng@durban.gov.za.

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality's Communications Unit. Contact Sane Shandu on 031 311 4806/072 572 8658 or email: sanelisiwe.shandu@durban.gov.za

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