Cholera updates: UN steps in, Vaal River tests positive

In an ongoing battle against cholera, South Africa is now receiving reinforcement from the United Nations (UN).

This after the outbreak had already claimed 22 lives across Gauteng and the Free State.

Cholera update

Adding to the severity of the situation, recent tests have confirmed the presence of cholera in the Vaal River.

Here’s what you need to know.

UN steps in

The United Nations (UN) is gearing up to lend a hand in South Africa’s ongoing battle against a cholera outbreak.

According to Nelson Muffuh, the UN’s representative in the country, the organisation is readying resources and personnel to offer assistance.

The goal is to bring relief to communities hit hardest by the outbreak and stop the situation from spiralling further out of control.

Water quality crisis in Tshwane

The cholera outbreak also amplified the already dire situation regarding clean water availability in Hammanskraal.

However, in the middle of this crisis, a few opportunists are profiting by selling water.

The city, however, urges residents to refrain from purchasing water from roaming tankers, emphasising that this water has not been tested.

Residents are encouraged to report any water-selling tankers in their local areas.

Cholera in Vaal River

Water samples taken from the Vaal River have tested positive for cholera, as confirmed by the Envirocare Laboratory. AfriForum commissioned these tests.

AfriForum is advocating for more water quality tests, especially in the Vaal River, as it has been battling for years for access to clean water.

As per WaterCAN executive manager Dr Ferrial Adam, some 19 million people are dependent on the Vaal River for either residential or industrial purposes.

READ: Water Dept warns Vaal residents to avoid tap water amid cholera outbreak

Temp medical centre in Hammanskraal

Health Minister Joe Phaahla announced the deployment of additional resources in Hammanskraal, where the cholera outbreak is rapidly spreading.

A temporary medical centre has been established to assist residents showing cholera-like symptoms.

The government has pledged psycho-social support for families affected by the outbreak, but has yet to commit any financial aid.