The City of Cape Town’s Health Department has recorded a sharp drop in surge season cases during November, compared to the same time last year.

The time period between November and May is referred to as the surge season as it coincides with an increase in diarrhoea and pneumonia cases.

The City's surge season data tracks cases of diarrhoea, pneumonia and severe acute malnutrition in children under five years of age within the metropole.

'These are conditions which can have life threatening consequences for babies and children under the age of 5 , especially if it is not diagnosed timeously and treated effectively. Surge season has only just started, but we are heartened by the lower caseload. In November last year, there were 2 205 recorded cases of diarrhoea, while this year it has dropped to 921 for the month. Likewise, cases of pneumonia have dropped from 1 161 to 780.

'We cannot celebrate these figures as there are still six months to go with the hottest weather still ahead of us. These health risks are not only treatable, but preventable,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross.

The City of Cape Town's clinics are able to diagnose and treat diarrhoea, pneumonia, malnutrition and a host of other ailments affecting children. The staff are also able to provide advice and guidance on nutrition, the lack of which plays a role in diarrhoea and malnutrition.

'Illnesses like malnutrition, pneumonia and diarrhoea can have lasting effects on a child's long term health and well-being. I want to encourage parents and caregivers to take advantage of the services available to keep their children healthy and safe. Don't hesitate to seek help at your local clinic if you're not sure. Early intervention can save a young child's life,' added Councillor Van der Ross.

Apart from handwashing, parents and caregivers are advised to wash bottles, bowls, spoons and teats before feeding young children.

Unclean hands can spread viruses that cause diarrhoea.

During hot summer days, food is easily spoilt. If eaten, this can also cause diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration. It is important to prepare and store food safely and to wash hands with soap and water after going to the toilet, changing the child's nappies and before preparing feeds.

At the child's first loose stool, prepare the replacement oral rehydration solution by doing the following: boil a litre of water and let it cool down. Add to the water eight teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of salt. Give the child small sips of the solution very frequently, preferably from a cup. If the child vomits, wait 10 minutes then continue, but slower. Avoid giving large amounts of the solution at once as this may cause them to vomit.

Continue breastfeeding and giving the child small frequent meals. Diarrhoea can last 48 to 72 hours. Care for your child at home rather than sending him to the crèche or school.

When babies and young infants lose even a small amount of fluid in their watery stools, it will cause them to become dehydrated quickly. Dehydration can be life threatening.

If a child has diarrhoea, seek assistance at the clinic or Community Health Centre nearest to your home. Do not wait until the child shows the danger signs of dehydration, namely:

if the child refuses to take in fluids or breastfeed

if the child starts vomiting all fluids after drinking

if there is blood in the child's stools

Source: City Of Cape Town