142 learners test positive for Bilharzia At Malwandla Primary School in Patenenge

EDUCATION LOCAL NEWS

By Agreement Mabunda

PATENGE-The Limpopo Department of Health is starting today (28 August 2024) dispatching a team of healthcare professionals to treat the 142 learners of Malwandla Primary School who tested positive for Birlhazia in Patenenge.

According to Limpopo health spokesperson Neil Shikwambana, he department sent a mobile clinic team to conduct tests after parents and teachers suspected that learners at the school might be having the condition last week.

“The dispatched team will provide immediate medical care and treatment to the affected learners. All learners who test positive will receive appropriate anti-schistosomal medication to treat the infection” he said

In addition, given that bilharzia is often transmitted through contact with contaminated water,  the department is working closely with the water service authority in the area to assess and improve water quality in the affected areas.

Shikwambana further said Measures will be put in place to ensure that all water sources used by the school and the surrounding community are safe and free from contamination.

The department is calling Parents, guardians, and community members to support these interventions by ensuring that children avoid swimming or playing in potentially contaminated water and by ensuring that they take children who are suspected of contracting the disease to the nearest health facility.

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