Rhodes University in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, is investigating an outbreak of gastrointestinal illnesses affecting members of its community, with the cause still unknown as health authorities work to establish what is making people sick.
The university confirmed the outbreak on Tuesday, 20 October, saying it was working with health authorities and environmental health practitioners to determine the possible source of the illnesses.
At least 109 Rhodes University students had fallen ill. However, the university’s initial public statement, as reported by authorities and media outlets, did not provide a confirmed official total of affected people.
The investigation comes amid renewed concerns about food safety, water quality and the risks associated with gastrointestinal infections.
University steps up safety measures
Rhodes University spokesperson Olwetu Gwanya said the institution was working urgently to establish the cause of the outbreak.
The university said it was taking precautionary measures, including ensuring the provision of safe drinking water in dining halls and introducing additional precautions during food preparation.
Environmental health practitioners and other health authorities are assisting with the investigation.
The university has urged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
Although contaminated food and water are among the possible causes of gastrointestinal illness, the source of the Rhodes University outbreak has not been confirmed. It would therefore be premature to attribute the cases to a particular dining hall, meal or water supply.
Subsequent enquiries with local medical practitioners have also indicated that similar cases are being reported elsewhere in Makhanda, raising questions about whether the situation extends beyond the university campus.
What is gastrointestinal illness?
Gastrointestinal illness refers to conditions affecting the digestive system, particularly the stomach and intestines. Gastroenteritis is one common form and is often associated with inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
These illnesses can be caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites. They may spread through contaminated food or drinking water, contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Depending on the cause, symptoms can include diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, stomach cramps and fever.
The National Department of Health identifies nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and fever among the common symptoms of foodborne illnesses. Severe cases can lead to dehydration, which can become dangerous if the body loses more fluids than it takes in.
Gastrointestinal illness is not a single disease, and the term does not automatically mean that someone has food poisoning. Laboratory tests and epidemiological investigations may be needed to identify the specific infection or contaminant responsible.
How serious can it become?
Many gastrointestinal infections resolve within a few days, but some can cause severe illness, particularly among young children, older people and those with weakened immune systems.
Persistent vomiting and diarrhoea can cause the body to lose significant amounts of water and essential salts. Warning signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, a dry mouth, reduced urination, dizziness, sunken eyes and unusual drowsiness.
Anyone experiencing severe symptoms, blood in their stool, persistent vomiting or signs of dehydration should seek urgent medical attention.
Water and food safety under scrutiny
Investigators will need to establish whether the cases share a common source and whether the illnesses are linked to food, water, person-to-person transmission or another environmental factor.
The National Department of Health explains that investigating a suspected foodborne outbreak can involve epidemiological assessments, laboratory testing of food, water and stool samples, as well as inspections of food preparation and storage facilities.
These steps help determine whether the cases are connected and what measures are needed to prevent further infections.
While the investigation at Rhodes University continues, the outbreak should not be confused with other gastrointestinal illness incidents reported elsewhere in South Africa. Similar symptoms do not necessarily mean that separate outbreaks have the same cause.
What students and staff should do
Members of the university community are encouraged to maintain good hygiene, wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water, and follow official guidance on safe drinking water and food preparation.
Food should be cooked thoroughly, raw and cooked foods should be kept separate, and drinking water should come from a safe source.
Anyone who develops diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach cramps or fever should seek medical advice, particularly if symptoms worsen or dehydration develops.
