The Eastern Cape Health Department is investigating cases of gastroenteritis affecting 111 students and staff members at Rhodes University in Makhanda. The investigation began after preliminary water tests reportedly detected the presence of E. coli, high levels of coliform bacteria, and low chlorine levels.
The cases were reported on Wednesday. A representative from the Eastern Cape Health Department, Siyanda Manana, stated that these cases have led to the absence of some students from classes. Initial information indicated that those affected were exhibiting symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting.
Investigation into the possible source of the problem
The Department's Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) team confirmed that Settler Hospital has received numerous referrals of patients from the university. The verification of reported cases and further assessment of the situation are currently ongoing.
Manana specified that preliminary water analyses conducted at the university's Microbiology Laboratory revealed an increased number of coliform bacteria, the presence of E. coli, and insufficient chlorine levels. He added that the significance of these results and their possible link to the illnesses are still being assessed.
It was noted that the university has a dedicated facility for assisting individuals with mild symptoms, where they receive rehydration. Patients requiring more intensive treatment are referred to Settler Hospital for further evaluation and care.
According to Manana, the Makhanda Municipality has also established a task force to coordinate response measures with environmental health specialists, health promoters, provincial epidemiologists, university staff, and other stakeholders. The Department will continue to monitor developments and inform the public.
He urged community members experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, or stomach aches to seek medical attention, maintain adequate hydration, and practice hand hygiene.
University strengthening preventive measures
Meanwhile, a representative from Rhodes University, Olwetu Gwanya, stated that the institution is closely collaborating with relevant authorities to address the public health issue. She reported that students with severe symptoms were taken to the hospital and subsequently returned to campus.
The university continues to track reported cases and coordinate medical support for affected students. As part of the overall response, the university has enhanced internal communication to ensure that students and staff are aware of recommended precautions and are adhering to them.
Gwanya also mentioned that the university has implemented several measures to contain the situation, including providing bottled drinking water. Staff and students are strongly advised to exercise vigilance and adhere to safe water usage, food handling practices, and personal hygiene both on and off campus. These measures include consuming boiled, chilled, or bottled water, using safe water for cooking and brushing teeth, avoiding ice and raw produce washed with untreated water, and regularly washing hands with soap and water.
The situation in Makhanda occurred following a water contamination crisis in Tshwane, when President Cyril Ramaphosa apologized to Tshwane residents affected by the water contamination crisis in Bronkhorstspruit, which recorded at least 408 cases of gastrointestinal illness. Speaking during his campaign rally in Davington Ekurhuleni on Tuesday, Ramaphosa stated that national intervention became necessary after the City of Tshwane was unable to ensure proper water purification.