treated for gastro intestinal symptoms in Mafikeng Provincial Hospital
25 February 2009
More than 240 Onkgopotse Tiro Comprehensive School students in Zeerust,
North West were treated in Mafikeng Provincial Hospital for gastro intestinal
symptoms. Nine (eight females and one male) students were hospitalised and are
responding well to treatment.
The students were bussed to the hospital this morning after they complained
of stomach pains, diarrhoea, vomiting and tiredness. Samples have been taken
for laboratory tests. An outbreak response team with environmental health
officers have been dispatched to the school to assess conditions.
The department would like to advise those using untreated water to purify
their water with a teaspoon of household bleach (jik) to a five litre bottle of
water or to mix one capful of household bleach with 20 to 25 litres of water
and let it stand for at least two hours (preferably overnight) before
consumption.
Any member of the public who gets sick with diarrhoea is urged to visit the
nearest clinic immediately.
Enquiries:
Nthabiseng Makhongoana
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 929 9958
E-mail: nmakhongoana@nwpg.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Health, North West Provincial Government
25 February 2009
