Tzaneen bilharzia cases rise to 155

The bilharzia outbreak in Tzaneen is far from over, with the Limpopo Department of Health confirming 13 new cases.

This follows the initial 142 cases reported at Malwandla Primary School in Petanenge Village last week.

According to the chairperson of the school governing body, Amanda Mondlane, although it is not yet known where the infections originated, it is suspected that a borehole providing drinking water to the school, and the nearby Richidzelo River are the sources.

She says it may be that these water sources are contaminated with sewage.

The new cases were identified at three local health facilities, namely Nkowankowa Health Centre (four cases), Dan Clinic (four cases) and Khujwana Clinic (five cases).

Health spokesperson Neil Shikwambana says the new cases bring the total number of confirmed bilharzia cases in the affected areas to 155.

A further 18 specimens have been taken at Malwandla Primary School and the department is waiting for the results.

Shikwambana says they are actively collaborating with local water service authorities to identify the source of the outbreak.

This is done by conducting water quality assessments in different freshwater sources, such as rivers, dams and commercial swimming pools.

“Health teams have been dispatched to conduct additional screenings and provide treatment at local schools. Residents must avoid swimming or wading in untreated freshwater sources such as rivers and dams,” says Shikwambana.

Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego reassured the public that the department is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

“We are deeply concerned about the rise in bilharzia cases, but we remain committed to containing the spread of the disease. Our health teams are working tirelessly to ensure that those affected receive prompt treatment, and we are conducting widespread education campaigns to raise awareness about prevention.”

Bilharzia, also known as schistosomiasis, is a parasitic disease caused by flatworms that live in freshwater sources, such as rivers and dams.

People become infected when they come into contact with contaminated water.

The disease can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Symptoms of bilharzia include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain and blood in the urine or stool.

The department calls on parents and guardians to immediately take their children to the nearest healthcare facility for testing if they have bilharzia symptoms.