Over one hundred cases of gastrointestinal illness have been registered at Rhodes University in Makhanda, prompting authorities to initiate public health responses to determine the cause of the outbreak.
According to this week's reports, the university recorded 111 cases, with provincial health authorities and other stakeholders involved in investigating and containing the disease. The cause of the outbreak has not yet been established.
This situation has drawn South Africans' attention to the importance of recognizing the signs of gastroenteritis, often called stomach flu, and understanding when the illness requires medical intervention.
What is gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It can spread through contaminated food or water, contact with an infected person, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Although many cases resolve within a few days, the illness can lead to dehydration, which becomes dangerous if the fluid lost through diarrhea and vomiting is not replenished.
What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis?
Symptoms can develop suddenly and vary in severity depending on the cause of the infection. According to health recommendations, the most common signs include:
- Diarrhea: frequent, loose, or watery stools.
- Nausea: feeling unwell or stomach upset.
- Vomiting: may occur with or without diarrhea.
- Abdominal cramps: pain or discomfort in the abdomen.
- Fever: some people experience an elevated temperature.
- Loss of appetite: may lack desire to eat.
- Headaches and muscle aches: some people feel general weakness, fatigue, or body aches.
Symptoms can vary, and not everyone will experience all of them.
Signs of dehydration to watch for
One of the most serious risks associated with gastroenteritis is dehydration, which occurs when the body loses more fluids and salts than it consumes. Repeated episodes of diarrhea and vomiting can cause fluid loss, making it crucial to drink enough fluids during recovery.
You should monitor the following signs of dehydration:
- Decreased frequency of urination compared to normal.
- Dark-colored urine.
- Dry mouth and increased thirst.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up.
- Unusual tiredness or weakness.
- Sunken eyes.
In infants and young children, warning signs include decreased number of wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears when crying, and unusual drowsiness. If dehydration is suspected, seek medical attention immediately, as severe dehydration may require hospitalization.
What to do if you have stomach flu?
If you develop symptoms of gastroenteritis, there are steps you can take to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
- Drink plenty of safe fluids. Replenishing lost fluids is a priority. Water should be consumed frequently and in small sips, especially when nauseous or vomiting. Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), available in pharmacies, can help replace water and necessary salts lost through diarrhea and vomiting. It should be prepared according to the instructions on the package using clean water.
- Get adequate rest. If possible, stay home or in your room while feeling unwell and avoid close contact with others.
- Eat when you feel able. Do not force yourself to eat. Start with foods that you can tolerate and avoid those that worsen symptoms.
- Be cautious with medications. Do not take antibiotics unless prescribed by a healthcare professional. Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, and appropriate treatment depends on the cause. Before taking anti-diarrheal medication, especially if you have a fever or blood in your stool, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
- Know when to seek medical help. Emergency medical care is required if you cannot retain fluids, have bloody diarrhea, severe or persistent abdominal pain, high fever, or signs of significant dehydration. Confusion, fainting, extreme weakness, or very little or no urine may also indicate a serious problem. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking help. Young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic diseases are at higher risk of complications and should seek medical advice early.
How to prevent the spread of stomach flu?
Gastroenteritis can spread rapidly in places where people use shared bathrooms, dining halls, and common areas. To reduce the risk of infection, heightened attention must be paid to hygiene. This includes:
- Thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially after using the toilet and before eating or handling food.
- Consuming safe water and using it for cooking or brushing teeth.
- Adhering to official water safety guidelines, including boiling and cooling water or using bottled water if recommended.
- Avoiding ice and raw produce washed with untreated water.
- Do not cook food for others while sick.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, including faucets, toilet handles, and doorknobs.
- Do not share towels, cutlery, or dishes while symptomatic.
- Stay away from work, activities, and public events while ill, and follow medical or institutional guidelines on when it is safe to return.
People with vomiting or diarrhea should pay special attention to hand hygiene, as the microbes causing gastroenteritis can spread through contaminated hands and surfaces.
What is the cause of the outbreak in Rhodes?
As of Wednesday, the cause of the gastrointestinal illnesses reported at Rhodes University has not been confirmed. The university stated that it is working with public health authorities and environmental health specialists to determine the cause and scale of the illnesses. Precautions included urgent testing of water quality in dormitories, ensuring safe drinking water in dining halls, and implementing additional food preparation measures. Students suffering from diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or fever were advised to maintain hydration and seek medical consultation.