Johannesburg: An outbreak of bilharzia, a waterborne parasitic disease also known as schistosomiasis, has been reported in South Africa’s Limpopo province, local authorities said Monday.

The Limpopo provincial government said in a statement that the outbreak has significantly impacted several areas within the Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality, located in the province’s Mopani District.

“Alarmingly, over 140 learners from Malwandla Primary School have been diagnosed and are currently receiving treatment with antiparasitic medication,” it said. “The rapid spread of this infection has raised serious concerns about health and safety in the affected communities.”

The Limpopo provincial government has established a team to coordinate efforts to tackle the outbreak, provide medical care to affected individuals and prevent further spread of the disease, the statement said.

The government advised residents in the affected areas to refrain from swimming in rivers, streams, or any other potentially contaminated wat
er sources, and ensure that any water used for drinking is boiled or properly treated before use. It also encouraged parents and guardians to closely monitor their children for any symptoms of bilharzia and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms arise.

“Our priority is to contain this outbreak and protect the health of our communities,” Basikopo Makamu, the acting premier of Limpopo province, was quoted as saying in the statement.

Bilharzia can present a range of symptoms, which include abdominal pain, fever and chills, bloody diarrhea, blood in urine, urinary tract infections, persistent headaches, and fatigue.

Source: The Namibia News Agency