Over 500 in South Africa sickened in outbreak linked to poor water quality

Over 500 individuals in South Africa have contracted a gastrointestinal illness characterized by stomach cramps and diarrhea, according to authorities who attribute the outbreak to subpar water quality in two cities. In Pretoria's surrounding areas, 408 people, including children, fell ill after consuming contaminated water from a treatment plant that had gone three weeks without chlorination due to a supplier shortage.

The city's mayor, Nasiphi Moya, admitted that officials failed to inform residents about the unsafe water, leading to a public outcry for her resignation and the dismissal of other officials responsible for the water contamination.

In Gqeberha, a coastal city in the Eastern Cape province, at least 111 university students from Rhodes University were hospitalized with gastrointestinal symptoms. University officials and water authorities are investigating the cause, strongly advising students to adhere to strict hygiene practices, including boiling and consuming only bottled water, to prevent further spread of the illness.