{
  "id": 16891557,
  "title": "Rhodes University launches probe into water after gastro outbreak",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/28/rhodes-university-launches-probe-into-water-after-gastro-outbreak",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-28T11:43:31.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "GroundUp",
    "slug": "groundup",
    "url": "https://groundup.org.za/article/rhodes-university-launches-probe-into-water-after-gastro-outbreak/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Rhodes University has launched an investigation into a diarrheal illness outbreak on campus in Makhanda, following reports of over 100 students and staff falling ill after consuming dining hall food. The municipal water system was not identified as the source of the contamination, as the water tested negative for E.coli and other harmful bacteria, according to Makana municipality's manager Pumelelo Kate. Several students, including Aphiwe Siphika, reported feeling dizzy and nauseous after eating at the university dining hall and have since been advised to use bottled water for cooking and drinking until further notice. Rhodes University spokesperson Olwetu Gwanya said the cause of the outbreak has not yet been determined, and a technical working group will be formed to investigate possible causes, identify lasting solutions, establish standard operating procedures, and communicate effectively with all parties involved.",
  "summary": "Over 100 students and staff have been treated for diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and vomiting",
  "key_points": [
    "Rhodes University investigating diarrheal outbreak on campus",
    "Over 100 students and staff reported illness after dining hall meals",
    "Municipal water tested negative for E.coli and harmful bacteria"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The investigation into the diarrheal illness outbreak signals an urgent need for the university to establish new safety protocols and standard operating procedures for its dining hall food services.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}