As of 28 February 2023, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases has declared a cholera outbreak in Gauteng after six cases and one death were reported in the province.
According to the Institute, the first three cases can be traced to the current outbreak in Malawi. Other African countries experiencing a cholera outbreak are Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Cholera is an acute infection affecting the intestine, caused by the bacteria, Vibrio. Outbreaks usually occur in areas with inadequate sanitation and insufficient access to safe drinking water.
People can become infected by drinking contaminated water or eating contaminated food. Cholera typically causes acute diarrhoea and dehydration and can affect people of all ages.
The infection is often mild or without symptoms but can sometimes be severe or life-threatening and even fatal within a few hours if untreated, especially in children.
Although cholera is often predictable and preventable. People are urged to ensure proper hand hygiene, which includes thoroughly washing hands with water and soap before and after using the bathroom or toilet and preparing or eating food.
Prevent the Spread
Download a poster and infographic set to educate and help prevent the spread of Cholera.