While there has been a significant decline in cholera infections in the past week, the national Health Department says the number of people who died due to cholera-related illnesses has risen to 47.
The department yesterday said Gauteng accounted for 35 deaths, the Free State six, Mpumalanga two and Limpopo four, News24 reports.
Spokesperson Foster Mohale, said the department had also noted a significant decline in confirmed cholera cases nationwide.
"Only one confirmed positive cholera case was recorded out of 28 new suspected cases in the past 10 days. However, this does not mean cholera transmission is over, and the public is urged to remain vigilant and exercise personal hygiene at all times, especially when preparing and serving food during mass gatherings."
He said 1 073 suspected cholera cases have been recorded in five provinces, of which 198 were laboratory confirmed, between 1 February and 4 July.
"In terms of the gender distribution of cholera cases, females accounted for 52%, which translates into 102 out of 198 confirmed cases.
"People between the ages of 41 and 50 accounted for 23%, followed by those between 31 and 40 at 17%, and lastly, 60 years and above accounted for 13%," Mohale added.
News24 – Cholera outbreak: 4 more deaths take toll to 47, says health department
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