Latest news with #NationalInstituteforCommunicableDiseases
IOL News
18-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Foodborne illness outbreak in Cape Town restaurant prompts calls for improved food safety
Environmental health inspections revealed issues including overstocking of cold storage and non-compliance with the "first-in, first-out" principle at a Cape Town restaurant. Image: Supplied Food handling practices and inadequate hygiene among staff members may have contributed to the spread of a foodborne disease (FBD) outbreak resulting in the closure of a Cape Town restaurant. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) yesterday released the findings of an investigation into circumstances leading to 46 suspected cases of Shigella spp. or enteroinvasive Escherichia coli (EIEC) - closely related bacteria that cause gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, in humans. Shigella spp. is highly contagious and can result in asymptomatic infection to severe bloody diarrhoea. Fever, headache, malaise and vomiting are often the initial symptoms. The report details how on February 8, 2024, the Western Cape Provincial Communicable Disease Control Co-ordinator received a notification from the NICD concerning a potential FBD outbreak linked to a restaurant. 'At approximately 10pm, a general practitioner (GP) informed the NICD of two patients who had presented at his practice with severe diarrhoea and high temperatures. The patients reported that they were a party of five, all of whom had consumed prawns during dinner at (the) restaurant." Three of these patrons were admitted to private hospitals with gastrointestinal symptoms. The GP also informed the restaurant of the cases via email. The City Health Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) were informed on February 9, 2024, and an outbreak investigation and response was initiated. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ 'The outbreak investigation and response were conducted to confirm the existence of an outbreak, identify additional cases, identify the source of the outbreak, and implement control measures. On February 10, 2024, two of the hospitalised patients tested positive for Shigella spp./Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli (EIEC) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.' Overall, 46 suspected cases were identified: 12 staff members and 34 patrons. Clinical specimens (stool or rectal swabs) were collected from 49 individuals, and 33 tested positive for Shigella spp./Enteroinvasive Escherichia coli (EIEC) - 6 patrons and 27 staff members. Following the incident, an environmental health inspection was done. Ultimately researchers concluded that food handling practices and inadequate hygiene among staff members may have contributed to the spread of enteric pathogens during the outbreak. Environmental health inspections revealed issues including overstocking of cold storage and non-compliance with the "first-in, first-out" principle. While a definitive source of contamination could not be identified, contaminated food or a food handler was likely responsible. The closure of the restaurant and prompt public and environmental health actions prevented the occurrence of additional cases. Following investigations, several interventions were implemented, including retraining of staff members on food safety, chemical safety, and effective hand and personal hygiene. The restaurant was deep-cleaned and disinfected, researchers said. Lead investigator Janine Bezuidenhoudt said: 'Restaurants, tuck shops, and fast-food establishments can all be sources of these illnesses. I hope this study continues the conversation about the risk and importance of foodborne diseases and how they can be prevented. We urgently need national Shigella guidelines to guide outbreak responses. It is also crucial for individuals with foodborne illness to seek healthcare for proper diagnosis and treatment, including specimen collection.' Cape Times
IOL News
11-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Winter wellness checklist: 10 proven tips to keep your family healthy this season
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), seasonal influenza can lead to severe complications, especially for children, the elderly, and anyone with chronic conditions. Image: Andrea Piacquadio/pexels As temperatures fall, colds, flu and viruses tend to emerge everywhere - from school halls and offices to taxis and even our living rooms. And nothing disrupts family life quite like endless sniffles, sick days, and sleepless nights. But here's the good news: with a few mindful habits, winter can become less about coughs and more about comfort, connection and even joy. Here's your easy-to-follow winter wellness checklist, inspired by expert advice and real-life tips that work for South African families. 1. Get your flu shot - it really matters: Flu isn't just a stronger version of the common cold. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), seasonal influenza can lead to severe complications, especially for children, the elderly, and anyone with chronic conditions. Annual flu vaccines can lower your chances of getting the flu, and if you do get sick, it's often milder. Make it a family routine – it protects not just you, but those around you. 2. Wash hands like it matters - because it does: Our hands pick up germs from everywhere - shopping trolleys, school bags, door handles. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) reminds us that frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stop viruses from spreading. When soap isn't around, keep a hand sanitiser in your bag or car. And yes, remind the kids (again) not to touch their eyes, nose or mouth. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) reminds us that frequent handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stop viruses from spreading. Image: Anna Shvets/pexels 3. Power up your immune system from the inside: Colourful plates aren't just pretty - they help keep your immune system strong. Nutrition experts suggest a mix of fruits, veggies and lean proteins every day. Vitamin D, found in eggs, fatty fish and fortified cereals, is especially important in winter when there's less sunshine. And keep those water bottles close, even mild dehydration can make you feel tired. If you're unsure about supplements, check in with a healthcare provider. 4. Keep moving - even if it's chilly: It's tempting to stay curled up under a blanket, but getting outside (even for 20 minutes) can lift your mood and boost your immune system. Studies from Harvard Medical School show that regular exercise helps white blood cells circulate more efficiently, making them better at fighting off illness. Walk around your local park, kick a ball with the kids, or just stretch on the patio. If getting outside isn't possible, crack open a window for some fresh air. 5. Prioritise mental health and togetherness: Winter's darker days can bring on the blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Psychologists suggest small steps like morning light exposure, connecting with friends, and planning family movie nights or board games to keep spirits high. The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) also offers support lines if the mood dips more than expected. 6. Cover sneezes (and make it fun): Kids are more likely to remember health habits when they're fun. Teach them to sneeze or cough into a tissue or their elbow, and don't shy away from making it silly with an exaggerated 'achoo!' This helps stop germs from spreading and keeps school days healthier. 7. Clean high-touch spots regularly: Germs love door handles, TV remotes, and light switches. A quick daily wipe-down with disinfectant can make a surprising difference. Get the kids involved, turn it into a five-minute evening routine with music to keep it fun. 8. Eat smarter, not stricter: Forget 'clean your plate' battles. Dietitians say letting kids decide when they're full teaches healthy habits that last. Use healthier oils like olive or canola when cooking, bake instead of frying, and swap sugary snacks for fruit, nuts or yoghurt. For parents, reading nutrition labels can help pick foods with less salt and sugar. For parents, reading nutrition labels can help pick foods with less salt and sugar. Image: Kindel Media 9. Sleep: your secret winter weapon: Adequate sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. The National Sleep Foundation recommends seven to nine hours for adults and even more for kids and teens. Try to keep bedrooms cool, dark and quiet, and build a relaxing routine; think reading instead of late-night scrolling. 10. Find the little joys: Winter doesn't have to be all about medicine and tissues. Embrace what makes the season cosy: warm soup, soft blankets, shared stories and slower evenings together. As family psychologist Dr Sheryl Ziegler says, 'Small moments of connection often matter more than big plans.'
The Star
10-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Viruses are in the air with flu and RSV on the rise
Tracy-Lynn Ruiters | Published 6 hours ago As South Africans continue to experience the winter chill, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases ( NICD is urging citizens to stay informed, take precautions, and seek medical attention when necessary — especially as seasonal viruses remain active across the country. This comes as the 2025 influenza season in South Africa began four weeks earlier than in 2024, marking the earliest onset since 2010, according to pneumonia surveillance in public hospitals. Though transmission remains relatively low, the virus continues to circulate well into the winter months. NICD has confirmed that flu cases remain active across the country. During the week of 16–22 June, lab testing showed a positivity rate of 15.8% for influenza and 16.7% for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) — two of the most common respiratory viruses tracked during this time of year. RSV, which typically peaks in autumn, has shown a later-than-usual surge in 2025, with ongoing detection reported in national respiratory surveillance. It remains a particular concern for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Other viruses like SARS-CoV-2 — the virus responsible for Covid-19 — continue to be monitored, but are circulating at low levels. The NICD is also keeping a watchful eye on diseases like measles and rubella, though these are currently less widespread. The NICD reminds the public to stay alert for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, and muscle aches — all common to flu and RSV. Covid-19 shares many of these symptoms but may also include the loss of smell or taste. Flu vaccines remain the best protection, particularly for high-risk individuals such as the elderly, pregnant women, people living with HIV, and those with chronic heart or lung disease. Although vaccines are typically administered before the start of winter, experts said it's not too late to get vaccinated and benefit from added protection during the colder months. The NICD also encourages simple but effective preventive habits: staying home when feeling sick, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and maintaining good hand hygiene. These non-pharmaceutical interventions continue to play a critical role in reducing transmission, especially in vulnerable environments like schools, care homes, and hospitals. Professor Burtram Fielding, Dean of Science at Stellenbosch University and a molecular biologist specialising in human pathogens, says the typical respiratory viruses — influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 — remain the main concerns this winter. 'Typically respiratory viruses are the main cause of concern in winter since we are in close contact indoors and these viruses spread via respiratory droplets,' he explained. He emphasised the ongoing danger posed by seasonal influenza, noting, 'Seasonal influenza has always had a high mortality rate globally, so will always remain a concern.' Addressing the frequent emergence of new Covid-19 variants, Fielding said, 'It appears as though the public panics with the emergence and reporting of each new strain or variant of SARS-CoV-2. However, we need to keep in mind that variants or strains will appear frequently; when the virus infects a person and replicates in their body, the virus mutates.' 'Based on coronavirus history, I am still of the opinion that the new strains will result in easier spread between humans, but not necessarily into a deadlier virus.' He also warned of the risks posed by avian influenza. 'Once again this year, researchers are concerned about the possible jump of flu from birds to humans. Avian influenza H5N1 has a high mortality rate and could be a real problem if it successfully jumps to humans.' RSV and hMPV remain ongoing concerns, particularly for children, though Fielding added, 'Fortunately these viruses are not normally highly pathogenic.' Discussing zoonotic threats such as Mpox, he explained, 'Unfortunately with increased global travel, the continued sale of bush meat, and the expanding human population resulting in encroachment on wildlife habitats, there will always be a risk of viruses jumping from animals to humans.' Fielding also explained how the new phase of the Genomic Surveillance Project contribute towards research of viruses and the prevention. The project, a collaboration between the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), aims to upscale the monitoring and analysis of genetic information from pathogens that pose a threat to public health. "Early identification of viruses is extremely important. It should allow us to better prepare for potential pandemics... and develop medical and pharmaceutical interventions much earlier, minimising the impact of an outbreak,' Fielding said. [email protected] Weekend Argus
IOL News
10-07-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Viruses are in the air with flu and RSV on the rise
Influenza is on the NICD's watchlist Image: File As South Africans continue to experience the winter chill, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases ( NICD is urging citizens to stay informed, take precautions, and seek medical attention when necessary — especially as seasonal viruses remain active across the country. This comes as the 2025 influenza season in South Africa began four weeks earlier than in 2024, marking the earliest onset since 2010, according to pneumonia surveillance in public hospitals. Though transmission remains relatively low, the virus continues to circulate well into the winter months. NICD has confirmed that flu cases remain active across the country. During the week of 16–22 June, lab testing showed a positivity rate of 15.8% for influenza and 16.7% for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) — two of the most common respiratory viruses tracked during this time of year. RSV, which typically peaks in autumn, has shown a later-than-usual surge in 2025, with ongoing detection reported in national respiratory surveillance. It remains a particular concern for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Other viruses like SARS-CoV-2 — the virus responsible for Covid-19 — continue to be monitored, but are circulating at low levels. The NICD is also keeping a watchful eye on diseases like measles and rubella, though these are currently less widespread. The NICD reminds the public to stay alert for symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, and muscle aches — all common to flu and RSV. Covid-19 shares many of these symptoms but may also include the loss of smell or taste. Flu vaccines remain the best protection, particularly for high-risk individuals such as the elderly, pregnant women, people living with HIV, and those with chronic heart or lung disease. Although vaccines are typically administered before the start of winter, experts said it's not too late to get vaccinated and benefit from added protection during the colder months. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The NICD also encourages simple but effective preventive habits: staying home when feeling sick, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and maintaining good hand hygiene. These non-pharmaceutical interventions continue to play a critical role in reducing transmission, especially in vulnerable environments like schools, care homes, and hospitals. Professor Burtram Fielding, Dean of Science at Stellenbosch University and a molecular biologist specialising in human pathogens, says the typical respiratory viruses — influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 — remain the main concerns this winter. 'Typically respiratory viruses are the main cause of concern in winter since we are in close contact indoors and these viruses spread via respiratory droplets,' he explained. He emphasised the ongoing danger posed by seasonal influenza, noting, 'Seasonal influenza has always had a high mortality rate globally, so will always remain a concern.' Addressing the frequent emergence of new Covid-19 variants, Fielding said, 'It appears as though the public panics with the emergence and reporting of each new strain or variant of SARS-CoV-2. However, we need to keep in mind that variants or strains will appear frequently; when the virus infects a person and replicates in their body, the virus mutates.' 'Based on coronavirus history, I am still of the opinion that the new strains will result in easier spread between humans, but not necessarily into a deadlier virus.' He also warned of the risks posed by avian influenza. 'Once again this year, researchers are concerned about the possible jump of flu from birds to humans. Avian influenza H5N1 has a high mortality rate and could be a real problem if it successfully jumps to humans.' RSV and hMPV remain ongoing concerns, particularly for children, though Fielding added, 'Fortunately these viruses are not normally highly pathogenic.' Discussing zoonotic threats such as Mpox, he explained, 'Unfortunately with increased global travel, the continued sale of bush meat, and the expanding human population resulting in encroachment on wildlife habitats, there will always be a risk of viruses jumping from animals to humans.' Fielding also explained how the new phase of the Genomic Surveillance Project contribute towards research of viruses and the prevention. The project, a collaboration between the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), aims to upscale the monitoring and analysis of genetic information from pathogens that pose a threat to public health. "Early identification of viruses is extremely important. It should allow us to better prepare for potential pandemics... and develop medical and pharmaceutical interventions much earlier, minimising the impact of an outbreak,' Fielding said. Weekend Argus
The Citizen
09-07-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
New Covid-19 variant: Public urged to remain calm
The National Department of Health has urged South Africans to not be concerned about the new Covid-19 variant, known as NB.1.8.1, which has mostly been detected in Asia. According to the department spokesperson, Foster Mohale, the department and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) are working closely to monitor and detect any possible infections in the country. Currently, no cases of the new variant have been reported in South Africa. ALSO READ: Business seminar uplifts youth in Pienaar 'There is no need for the public to panic, as current data on this variant does not suggest any increased public health risk. However, people are urged to remain vigilant at all times and continue to observe non-pharmaceutical interventions such as regular handwashing with soap and water, and sanitising hands and surfaces,' said Mohale. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
