The City of Cape Town says there has been a surge in diarrhea and pneumonia cases in young children.
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health, Patricia van der Ross, says there’s been a 70% increase in children younger than five presenting with diarrhea compared to the same time last year.
She says the period between November and May is generally known as the surge season in which there is a marked increase in diarrhea and pneumonia cases.
Van der Ross has urged parents to monitor their children for symptoms.
“We’re not yet halfway through the season and the numbers are concerning. These illnesses are the biggest health risks to young children and yet they can be treated and are entirely preventable. I urge parents and caregivers to continue with health protocols and to seek treatment at their local clinic as soon as they observe symptoms or suspect one of these ailments,”says Van der Ross.
