MAKHANDA- The Eastern Cape Department of Health is investigating 111 reported cases of gastroenteritis involving students and staff at Rhodes University, amid preliminary water-test findings that have raised concerns about possible contamination.
The department confirmed the number of reported cases as of Wednesday, 21 October saying affected individuals had presented with symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting.
The illnesses have also resulted in absenteeism among some students, according to the department.However, it remains unclear whether the reported illnesses are linked to the university’s water supply, as investigations into the cases and the significance of the preliminary test results are still under way.
Preliminary water testing conducted at the university’s Microbiology Laboratory reportedly detected high coliform counts, the presence of E. coli and low chlorine levels.
The department said the findings were still being assessed and had not yet established a link between the water-test results and the reported illnesses.
The department’s Infection Prevention and Control team has confirmed that several referrals from the university have been observed at Settlers Hospital, where patients requiring further medical attention are being assessed and treated.
The university has also designated a facility to manage people with mild symptoms, where they are provided with rehydration.
Those requiring more intensive medical care are referred to Settlers Hospital.
Meanwhile, Makana Local Municipality is establishing a War Room to coordinate the response in collaboration with provincial health officials, environmental health practitioners, health promoters, an epidemiologist, university personnel and other relevant stakeholders.
The department said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide further updates as more information became available.
Residents and members of the university community experiencing diarrhoea, vomiting or stomach cramps have been urged to seek medical attention, maintain adequate hydration and practise good hand hygiene.
IMAGE: Supplied
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