Kaya 959 Reporter
The National Institute of Communicable Diseases NICD recently confirmed there have been typhoid outbreak cases in parts of the country.
Typhoid fever which has been previously detected in South Africa in previous years is caused by bacteria and spreads by ingesting contaminated food or water and even direct contact with an infected person.
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Phemelo Motene recently spoke to Professor Mosa Moshabela, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Innovation at UKZN who unpack important information of the Typhoid Outbreak in South Africa.
On Monday the NICD dismissed claims on social media that the reported cases originated from municipal water.
“There are numerous social media posts with false information about enteric fever in South Africa that are attracting widespread attention and causing needless concern and panic at the moment,” said NICD’s Dr Juno Thomas on Monday.
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How to protect yourself
Water safety is very vital, the NICD urged people to continue with preventative measures when there is doubts that the water is not clean.
Residents across the country are urged to continue to regularly wash their hands with soap and water before, during and after preparing food, before and after eating, after using the toilet, and before and after caring for a sick individual.
Symptoms include headaches, abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhoea.
Furthermore, should there be any concerns about the safety of the water, it should be boiled or treated with household bleach (add one teaspoon of bleach) to 20-25 litres of water, mix well and leave to stand for at least 30 minutes before use.
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