high alert
6 January 2006
Gauteng Health MEC, Dr Gwen Ramokgopa, has called on doctors and other
health practitioners, both in government and private sector, to be on alert as
more cases of malaria have been found in Gauteng province.
Seven more patients with malaria were notified in Tshwane Hospitals. This
brings the number of reported cases to 15, after eight malaria patients were
reported over the weekend. The new cases were all important. This means that
they came back already infected with malaria from the places they had visited.
One had been to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the second one from
Zimbabwe, three from Mozambique, Namibia, and the last at Kruger National
Park.
Out of the latest seven cases, three had taken prophylaxis (medication to
protect them from getting the disease). Three of the patients have been
admitted and their conditions are progressing. Two are recovering at home. They
had been given information on preventive measures when visiting malaria endemic
areas.
Enquiries:
Bhungani ka Mzolo
Tel: (011) 355 3483
Cell: 082 334 9851
E-mail: Bhongani.Mzolo@Gauteng.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Health, Gauteng Provincial Government
6 January 2006
Source: Department of Health, Gauteng Provincial Government (http://www.health.gpg.gov.za)
