South Africa dirty water scandal: 408 people fell ill, most of them children

In the Gauteng province of the Republic of South Africa, 408 people suffered stomach and intestinal illnesses due to contamination of the municipal water supply. The majority of patients were children under 4 years old, and high levels of coliform bacteria were detected in water samples. Investigations revealed that the water had not been chlorinated for about three weeks and that the source had been polluted with sewage waste.

The majority were affected children.

In a joint statement issued by the South African Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Water and Sanitation, the Gauteng provincial government, and Tshwane Municipality, it was reported that 408 cases of stomach and intestinal disease were recorded in the Bronkhorstspruit area near Pretoria between 7 and 18 October.

It was noted that most of the cases were observed in children under 4 years old, and that no fatalities had occurred to date.

It was recorded that the majority of patients who sought hospital and clinic care with complaints of abdominal cramps and diarrhea were discharged within a day after receiving fluid replacement.

Pathogens Found in Water Samples

In the investigations conducted, pathogens such as norovirus, Campylobacter, and Shigella were detected in three of the four stool samples analyzed. In contrast, the samples were found not to contain the cholera bacterium.

Samples taken from the water supply facility and two separate depots revealed high levels of coliform bacteria. This finding raised serious concerns about the safety of drinking water in the region.

Municipal Water Was Not Chlorinated for About Three Weeks

Investigations carried out by officials revealed serious disruptions behind the water crisis. Due to problems with the supplier, it was determined that municipal water was not chlorinated between September 24 and October 14. It was also found that the municipality did not warn the public during this period.

It was reported that the river feeding the water supply plant was contaminated with sewage waste, and that some pump and filter systems were also not functioning.

Warning to the Public Not to Use Municipal Water

Officials urged residents of the area not to use tap water for drinking, cooking, washing, and laundry.

It was announced that the drinking water needs in the region were beginning to be met with tankers, while it was noted that it is still unclear when the tap water will become safe again.

The incident once again brought to light the danger that malfunctions in water treatment systems and insufficient oversight could pose to public health.