Contaminated water cases in Bronkhorstspruit rise to 833
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Sabcnews
Cases of gastrointestinal illness linked to contaminated water in Bronkhorstspruit, South Africa, have risen to 833, including 328 children under four; only three patients are in hospital. Water Minister Pemmy Majodina says patients usually went home after rehydration, while Deputy President Paul Mashatile announced checks on private water-tanker suppliers, according to SABC News.
The number of reported cases of gastrointestinal illness linked to contaminated water in Bronkhorstspruit, east of Pretoria, has risen to 833, including 328 children under four, SABC News reports. Only three patients are currently in hospital, South African Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina said.
Since 7 October, hospital stays have not exceeded three days, the minister said at a press briefing at Bronkhorstspruit District Hospital. Patients were mainly treated for dehydration and returned home after being rehydrated, she added.
South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile said residents would continue to receive drinking water despite the closure of the local treatment plant. He announced checks on private water-tanker suppliers, whose water sources have raised concerns, while the municipality temporarily ensures the supply.
The total of 833 cases follows 408 cases reported during Paul Mashatile’s visit on 26 October. The crisis comes amid an interruption to the safe water supply in Bronkhorstspruit, reported on 25 October.
