Because people have seen how the cholera outbreak ravaged Hammanskraal, taking stock of the little things will ensure water is safe to drink.
Though the residents of Springs are far away from the primary outbreak, they still need to be careful and vigilant.
According to the National Department of Health, cholera is a highly infectious disease that affects the stomach and intestines.
“It is the leading cause of child death around the world and mostly spreads by contact with an infected person or through contaminated food or drinking water,” the department said.
The department warned everyone to be careful, emphasising vulnerable groups.
“Pregnant women and other vulnerable groups should take extra precautions with their hygiene. Only drink safe water. If you’re unsure, first boil or disinfect it,” said the department.
Also read: Calls for vigilance during cholera outbreak
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the disease can spread through “food that is raw, poorly cooked or becomes contaminated with faeces during preparation or storage”.
The WHO continued, “Avoid contact with anything contaminated with the faeces or vomit of someone who has cholera and unprotected contact with the body of someone who died from cholera.”
Rand Water said there are ways to ensure water is safe to drink – by boiling it, chemically treating it or buying it bottled.
“You can reduce the risk for you and your loved ones by drinking safe water. Use safe water for washing, preparing food, cooking, and cleaning your hands regularly, especially before eating, after using the toilet, or changing nappies.”
Rand Water’s purification guide offered further advice, “Cook food thoroughly, keep it covered, or eat it immediately after cooking it. Do not go to the toilet or wash your hands or clothes close to where you get your drinking water.”
