Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has confirmed that no cholera has been detected following an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness in Bronkhorstspruit and surrounding communities in Tshwane.
Authorities are investigating 408 cases reported between 7 and 18 October, with most patients being children under four. No deaths have been reported.
Laboratory tests detected Norovirus, Campylobacter and Shigella in stool samples, while investigations found high levels of E. coli in water from the Bronkhorstspruit Water Treatment Works.
The contamination is believed to be linked to the failure to chlorinate water between 24 September and 14 October due to problems with the City of Tshwane’s chlorine supply.
Residents have been warned not to drink tap water or use it for cooking, washing or bathing until further notice. Water tankers are supplying affected communities while investigations continue.
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