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27 June 2024 ALERT: Public Health Response to the Confirmation of Rabies in Cape Fur Seals

ALERT: Public Health Response to the Confirmation of Rabies in Cape Fur Seals

Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), together with Western Cape Veterinary Services, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), City of Cape Town Coastal Management, and other partners are working closely to establish the extent and timeline of the outbreak through further sampling and testing.

Circular H80/2024, which is aligned to Circular H19/2022: Rabies: Updated Draft National Human Rabies Prophylaxis Guideline and the Prevention of Human Rabies Cases:

This serves as an alert to inform healthcare providers and workers of the necessary public health response following a confirmed rabies case in a wild Cape Fur Seal from Big Bay, Blouberg, Cape Town.

The sample was taken from the seal in question on 22 May 2024 and was confirmed to be infected with rabies by the Western Cape Department of Agriculture on 7 June 2024.

Rabies has never been detected in seals in Southern Africa before, and this is one of the very few detections in seals worldwide.

Information on various seal bite incidents has been received by the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness from the City of Cape Town Coastal Management, Oudekraal, Kommetjie, Muizenberg, Blouberg in Cape Town, and Plettenberg Bay.

Rabies in unvaccinated animals can lead to the spread of the disease and can be fatal to humans. Therefore, with the confirmed rabies case in Cape Town, the public needs to be advised of the following:

All human and animal contact should be avoided as far as possible.

  1. Anyone bitten by a seal from December 2023 should seek medical attention and after risk assessment, be given PEP (Post Exposure Prophylaxis) if necessary.
  2. Anyone with an animal bitten by a seal from December 2023 should consult a local state vet.
  3. Owners to ensure that their animal’s Rabies vaccination is up to date.

Public Health Response and Measures Following the Confirmed Rabies Case in Cape Fur Seals:

  1. Ensure all persons who have sustained seal bites since December 2023 access medical advice for a risk assessment to determine the need for PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis).
  2. All new seal bites should be managed and treated as animal bites.
  3. PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) should be recommended for persons at high risk or those directly and continually exposed to animals, such as veterinarians.
  4. Healthcare facilities and medical professionals should record any seal bite cases that have occurred within the last six months using the Western Cape Animal Bite Incident Form.
  5. Ensure the availability of an adequate supply of rabies immunoglobulin and rabies vaccine.
  6. Implement risk communication strategies.

BACKGROUND ON RABIES

Rabies is a zoonotic, fatal, vaccine-preventable viral disease which is spread through the bite of an infected animal. It is endemic in South Africa with an average of 10 laboratory confirmed cases of human rabies confirmed annually.

Signs of Rabies in animals

  • Abnormal behaviour.
  • Domestic animals show aggression, disorientation and paralysis. They may foam at the mouth and bite people without provocation.
  • It is important to note that animals are infectious before they develop any signs of unusual behaviour.

Signs and symptoms of Rabies in humans

  • Discomfort and pain at the site of the wound.
  • Fever, headache, nausea and vomiting and this progresses to signs of neurological dysfunction and death.

Transmission from animals to humans

  • The rabies virus is present in the saliva of infected animals and is transmitted by a bite or scratch, a lick on broken skin and a lick on mucous membrane (eyes or mouth).

Human to human transmission

  • It has been infrequently reported and has been limited to a few cases involving organ and graft transplantation from donors who have died of undiagnosed rabies.
  • Although rabid patients may inflict bites and scratches on health care workers, no secondary cases of human rabies have been confirmed or reported following such exposures.

 Preventative measures

  • Vaccinate animals. By law, all dogs and cats in South Africa must be vaccinated against Rabies and re-vaccinated every 1-3 years.
  • Rabies infection in humans can be prevented by prompt administration of rabies PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) following exposure to rabid or suspected Rabies-infected animals.
  • All animal bites should be assessed for potential rabies virus exposure.
  • All wounds must be immediately washed for 5 – 10 minutes with water.

For any additional information regarding this article please or to report any incidents please contact:

Mr Johan Compion
Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za
Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 5161

26 June 2024 Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners ensuring food safety at the Oyster Festival

Media Release: Environmental Health Practitioners ensuring food safety at the Oyster Festival

For immediate release
26 June 2024

The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) based at the Knysna office has prepared for the 41st annual Knysna Oyster Festival well in advance.

They have been planning and are implementing a mitigation and monitoring work schedule before, during and for after the festival.  According to James McCarthy, Chief EHP for the Knysna region: “The purpose of the schedule is to minimise and address any public health issue that might arise at the festival”.

During the first weekend (21- 23 June 2024), thousands of marathon runners were welcomed to Knysna, participating in the annual Knysna Forest Marathon.  The second weekend (28 – 30 June 2024) hosts the Knysna Cycling event which is expected to attract numerous enthusiastic cyclists from across the country.

Pre-festival inspections, as well as inspections during the event are undertaken of all formal and informal food premises, including:

  • Eleven (11) official Oyster potential hotspot food venues have been identified where culinary events will take place for the duration of the festival.
  • Daily inspections at these venues, as well as additional food premises are being undertaken.
  • The local High school sportsground that serves as central Festival “hub “.
  • The return of the ever-popular informal stalls (“Oyster Alley”) at the Festival Ground is a favourite crowd attraction with more than 20 food and craft stores selling their goods to tourists and locals.
  • Inspections are also undertaken at various locations in town, where thousands of oysters are kept under required conditions.

Regular inspections and health surveillance of premises of all related public amenities are undertaken during the festival, including:

  • Public toilet facilities;
  • Accommodation establishments;
  • Festival grounds;
  • Food markets;
  • Tobacco control at premises.

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE OUTBREAK

 A strict communication protocol regarding the reporting of any potential communicable disease outbreak between the GRDM and the relevant medical health care providers in the area. This includes both the private and provincial hospitals, general practitioners and pharmacies.

For any additional information regarding the festival, please contact:

Knysna Region
James McCarthy
26A Queen Street, Knysna
E-mail: james@gardenroute.gov.za. Tel: 044 382 7214 / Cell: 082 805 9417  /or

Johan Compion
Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services
E-mail: info@gardenroute.gov.za / Tel: 044 803 1300 / Cell: 082 803 5161

Feature Image: Supplied

ENDS

25 June 2024 Media Release: Request for a Local Disaster declaration submitted by GRDM with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn municipal area

Media Release: Request for a Local Disaster declaration submitted by GRDM with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn municipal area

25 June 2024

In response to the severe flooding experienced between 8 April and 11 April 2024, and from 2 June to 6 June 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) requested the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre (PDMC) to support a declaration of the Garden Route with specific reference to the Oudtshoorn Local Municipal area as a Local Disaster area. The PDMC pledged their support for the nearly R500 million submission. This was was subsequently submitted to the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) to agree with the classification or to re-classify it.

The Garden Route district experienced prolonged and heavy rainfall and a downflow of water from adjacent districts, leading to the spilling of dams and significant downstream flooding. Several major and minor roads had to be closed, and in the Oudtshoorn area, the Koos Raubenheimer-, Kammanassie-, and Stompdrift Dams overflowed, contributing to the flooding of the Olifants River. The Stompdrift Dam overflowed for the first time in the last nine years and peaked at more than 136% in capacity. The Gamkapoort Dam also overflowed, intensifying the already critical situation. This resulted in extensive damage to both urban and rural infrastructure.

Damages reported for the Oudtshoorn Municipality are more than R100 million, agriculture-related damages are estimated at R182 million and damages to district roads and infrastructure are projected to surpass R200 million.

Under Schedule D2 of the powers delegated to the current Executive Mayor of GRDM, Ald. Gert van Niekerk by the Council, he has the authority to support or declare a local state of disaster if warranted by the Disaster Management Act, Act 57 of 2002, as amended.

Ald. Gert van Niekerk supported the declaration and said: “This type of declaration enables access to additional resources and funds to assist in restoring, rebuilding, and improving infrastructure damaged after a disastrous event.”

Gerhard Otto, heading Disaster Management at GRDM indicated that: “The declaration of a local disaster will allow the municipality to access disaster recovery and rehabilitation grant funding and permit the necessary provincial and municipal budgets to be supplemented to address the damages caused by the flooding. It will also allow for emergency procurement procedures to be followed to not only fast track rehabilitation and recovery work but also to allow for building back better to ensure a more resilient Garden Route”.

The process for declaring a local disaster involves:

  • A decision agreed to by the Councils of both the Local and District Municipality.
  • A request from the Municipal Disaster Management Centre to the PDMC for the declaration.
  • A Provincial Cabinet Resolution recommending or not recommending the request.
  • Confirmation from the National Disaster Management Centre through a classification process, followed by publication in the provincial gazette.

“Prior to the floods, the GRDM received multiple impact-based weather warnings from the South African Weather Services (SAWS), including warnings for damaging winds, waves, and disruptive rain. These warnings were disseminated to all relevant stakeholders, enabling proactive measures and contingency plans to be put in place,” said Otto.

Despite these measures, the floodwaters caused significant disruptions, including the closure of Meiringspoort, low-water bridges in Oudtshoorn, and various other roads due to flooding and rock falls. The flood also necessitated the evacuation of the Calitzdorp Hot Springs Resort and the rescue of dozens of people cut off by floodwaters in Oudtshoorn.

The GRDM in the past has successfully coordinated the declaration of local disasters for the 2010 Drought, 2006 as well as the 2022 Floods and the storm surges of 2023. Following the latter two declared disasters more than R280 million disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction grant funding were provided to the George-, Oudtshoorn-, Hessequa- and Knysna Local Municipalities to execute rehabilitation and reconstruction projects with the emphasis on building back better.

Feature image: N12 between Oudtshoorn and De Rust was damaged during the floods. 

ENDS

25 June 2024 Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Hosts Workshop on Healthy Lifestyles for Firefighters

Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Hosts Workshop on Healthy Lifestyles for Firefighters

25 June 2024

Yesterday, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) held an educational workshop for its firefighters on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The workshop was presented by Lize Esterhuysen, a registered Dietitian and International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Recognizing the critical role that firefighters play, GRDM organized this session to emphasize the importance of health and wellness for these vital members of the organization and the community.

The session was both interactive and informative, featuring practical examples to enhance understanding. Esterhuysen covered a range of essential topics, including:

  • Total Energy Expenditure
  • 5 Step Plan for Goal Setting
  • Body Composition
  • Eating for Sustained Energy
  • High-Quality Protein Sources
  • Types of Healthy Fats
  • Understanding the Microbiome and Important Foods
  • Tips for Selecting and Preparing Healthy Food

During the workshop, firefighters received valuable advice on reading nutrition labels, planning weekly menus, and the benefits of using fresh or frozen produce. Emphasis was placed on ensuring each food group is included in every meal.

The goal-setting process was a major highlight, comprising five critical steps:

  1. Define Your Goals: Discussing what firefighters aim to achieve and why focusing on a healthy lifestyle is crucial.

  2. Start Small: Participants wrote down three small dietary goals they could implement immediately.

  3. Plan Ahead: Encouragement to plan meals and snacks for the week and prepare in bulk to save time.

  4. Add, don’t Subtract: Exploring ways to enhance usual meals with healthier additions. For example, adding nutritious ingredients to a mince pasta dish.

  5. Eat real food: To focus on whole foods, encouraging the consumption of fresh, unprocessed foods with a short shelf life.

Lize Esterhuysen provided a thorough explanation on the importance of gut health for firefighters, emphasizing its critical role in overall well-being and physical performance. She highlighted that a healthy gut supports better nutrient absorption, stronger immunity, and improved mental health—all crucial for the demanding nature of firefighting. To actively support and improve gut health, Ms. Esterhuysen advised incorporating a diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods. She also stressed the importance of staying hydrated, managing stress, and avoiding processed foods to maintain a healthy and balanced gut microbiome.

Through these examples, firefighters were able to apply the workshop’s principles to their daily lives.

Feature Image Caption: Dietitian Lize Esterhuysen with some of the GRDM Firefighters who attended the information session.

Activities during the healthy lifestyle workshop

-END-

24 June 2024 Media Release: Civil society participation a boost for conservation in the Southern Cape

Media Release: Civil society participation a boost for conservation in the Southern Cape

For immediate release
24 June 2024

“The Garden Route is blessed with a wealth of biodiversity and some of South Africa’s most scenic natural treasures in beaches, forests, mountains, rivers and lakes,” says Cobus Meiring of the Garden Route Environmental Forum (GREF).

The Western Cape natural environment is generally speaking, well protected by Provincial Government from an environmental management perspective. Thus, with capable mandated conservation bodies such as CapeNature and SANParks, as well as several privately owned entities acting as custodians for many nature reserves and conservation areas scattered all over the Province, all bodes well for the future.

A fast-changing climate resulting in natural disasters including storm surges, drought, fire and floods continue to expose the fragility of the region, and even more pressure is being exerted by a steady increase in population and growing demands on natural resources such as water and land for development and agriculture.

GREF is acting as a public platform for conservation and environmental management entities for both mandated and private environmental management entities and is delighted to be able to report that civil society increasingly plays a vital role in protecting natural assets and biodiversity in the Garden Route.

There is a deepening of public understanding that conservation and the protection of biodiversity can happen in small scale e.g. the protection of a wetland or by not clearing all land of fynbos, but that the collective of all the small efforts by landowners and privately led conservancies including the establishment of conservation corridors are making a big difference.

The theme for the GREF 2024 Climate Change and Environmental Management Indaba on 27 June at the Nelson Mandel University: George Campus is “Resilience in action: Building Sustainable Communities amid a Changing Climate”, and civil society will be presenting on a range of issues aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change going forward.

Issued by: The GREF

GREF is a climate change think tank and public platform for conservation and environmental management entities in the Garden Route.

For further enquiries, contact:
Louise Mare
E-mail: louisamare@gmail.com

Feature Image: Picture captured in Kannaland during the recent floods. – Supplied

ENDS

20 June 2024 Public Notice: GRDM 2024/2025 Final Top Layer Service Delivery Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) Approved

Public Notice: GRDM 2024/2025 Final op Layer Service Delivery Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) Approved

Members of the public,

Please be informed that the Final Top Layer Service Delivery Budget Implementation Plan (SDBIP) for the 2024/2025 financial year was approved on 20 June 2024.

For more information, contact the Manager: Performance Management, Ms Ilse Saaiman, at:

Tel: 044-803 1300 / E-mail: pms@gardenroute.gov.za.

20 June 2024 Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners and Stakeholders Perform Collaborative Spaza Shop Blitz Operation in Oudtshoorn

Media Release:  GRDM Environmental Health Practitioners and Stakeholders Perform Collaborative Spaza Shop Blitz Operation in Oudtshoorn

20 June 2024

A coordinated Spaza Shop Blitz operation was carried out in the Bridgton area of Oudtshoorn on Thursday, 13 June 2024. This multi-stakeholder blitz operation involved the Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs), the South African Police Service (SAPS), Oudtshoorn Municipality’s Law Enforcement, and Fire Services.

The operation aimed to inspect spaza shops for compliance with legislative requirements. The areas of inspection include:

  • Verification of a valid Certificate of Acceptability in accordance with Regulation 638, promulgated under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectant Act, 1972 (Act 54 of 1972) and ensuring that it is displayed in a conspicuous place for the public to see.
  • Ensuring valid business licences in accordance with the Business Act No. 71 of 24 April 1991. (Local Law Enforcement)
  • Assessment of the general hygiene of the premises.
  • Checking the labelling of foodstuffs.

A total of five shops were inspected during the operation. Following the inspections, GRDM EHPs issued reports to each establishment, highlighting areas needing improvement to meet compliance standards. The joint operation was done to ensure compliance with all health requirements.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to ensuring public health and safety through adherence to health regulations. The public is encouraged to report any complaints related to these health requirements to the GRDM Municipal Health Services Office at 15 Regent Street, Oudtshoorn, or contact the Oudtshoorn office at 044-272-2241.

Activities during the Spaza Shop Blitz Operations

-END-

19 June 2024 Media Release: Oudtshoorn Environmental Health Practitioners Celebrated World Food Safety Day on June 7

Media Release: Oudtshoorn Environmental Health Practitioners Celebrated World Food Safety Day on June 7

19 June 2024

This year, the focus of World Food Safety Day, observed on June 7, 2024, was “Food safety: Prepare for the unexpected.” This theme underscored the importance of readiness for food safety incidents and the shared responsibility from producers to consumers.

Environmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) from Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) monitor food-processing establishments by law. They inspect production, distribution, and consumption areas to promote safe food handling practices. EHPs conduct regular inspections in line with Regulation 638 of 22 June 2018, governing food premises and transport standards.

EHP Johan Smith educated the food handlers and management of the Spekboom Restaurant at the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn about the ‘5 Keys for safer food’ .

The World Health Organization defines ‘Food Safety’ as the assurance that food will not harm consumers when prepared and eaten. ‘Food Hygiene’ encompasses measures to ensure food safety from production to consumption.

Unsafe food can lead to serious health problems. It is well-documented that over 600 million people fall ill and 420 000 die annually from contaminated food world-wide. This is why prioritising food safety is of such great importance.

Food safety incidents can vary from minor to major crises. These incidents may arise from frequent and prolonged load shedding, food poisoning, product recalls, or outbreaks. In South Africa, Health Authorities enforce food safety control to protect consumers, ensuring food safety during production, handling, storage, processing, and distribution.

EHPs ensure compliance with Regulations 328 of 2007. This includes the inspection of all food premises. Some examples include hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets. The role of an EHP during such compliance visits, include to check if a company has a valid Certificate of Acceptability (CoA) issuing of CoAs, examining food labels, investigating complaints, monitoring compliance, inspecting premises and vehicles, sampling foodstuffs, enforcing laws, and promoting food hygiene education.

For more information about food safety, please contact the Garden Route District Municipality’s Environmental Health Office in the Klein Karoo Region & Kannaland Region, under the management of Desmond Paulse. Contact 044 272 2241 or 083 678 6530.

For regional-related issues, contact Johan Compion, the Manager: Municipal Health & Environmental Services on 082 803 5161.

Feature Image: EHP Elizna Cairncross rolled out food hygiene education to food handlers and the management of De Biltong Man Butchery in Oudtshoorn

EHP Johan Smith educated the food handlers and management of the Spekboom Restaurant at the Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn about the ‘5 Keys for safer food’

 

ENDS

19 June 2024 Update: Gwaiing Road Construction Works, George

Update: Gwaiing Road Construction Project

19 June 2024

The Gwaiing project remains in the construction phase, with a focus on the layer works.

Progress on the project has been delayed by the recent Victoria Street building collapse due to the yellow fleet / trucks that were made available to transport building rubble from the incident. The recent downpour of rainfall in the region also had an impact on the progress to date.

The team is currently constructing the cement-stabilized layer on the right-hand side (RHS) lane, which is the second-to-last layer of the roadworks. Preparation is also underway for the material for the final layer of the RHS lane before it can be transported onto the road. Additionally, work is being conducted on the drainage network to ensure effective stormwater management on the site.

The percentage of completion remains at 78%, as the team is awaiting the test results of a test section that was done to approve the material used for the final layer on the RHS. The program of the specialist machine used for the stabilisation process, has also been affected by the rainfall, and production will commence on that activity as soon as the machine arrives on the site.

The intended final completion date is set for 18 September 2024

-ENDS-

18 June 2024 Media Release: Let’s work together to keep healthy and safe this winter


Media Release: Let’s work together to keep healthy and safe this winter

For immediate release
18 June 2024

The Western Cape Department of Health is prioritising the health and safety of all patients during this cold season.  With winter upon us, many people are navigating healthcare facilities visits amidst cold and wet conditions. While winter brings its own set of challenges, we want to ensure that your visit to your local clinic is safe and comfortable.

Healthcare facilities across the province have appointment systems in place to ensure that you can cut down on longer waiting times and arrive at least 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the arrangement with your facility).

Director for Garden and Central Karoo districts, Mr Zee Brickles, encourages residents to make use of the appointment system and to reach out to local facility managers if they have any concerns.

“It’s important that we prioritise the safety and well-being of all people visiting our health facilities, especially our elderly and other vulnerable groups during winter in cold weather.

We ask that you only arrive within the time frame stipulated by your facility and appointment to reduce your waiting time. We also encourage residents to visit the facility when it is open to ensure your safety”.

Here are more ways that we can stay warm and safe this winter:

1. Avoid queues: Reduce early queueing in cold and wet conditions by making use of the appointment system.              By scheduling your visit, you can ensure a smoother experience upon arrival.

  1. Arrive on time: Arriving on time not only helps us to manage queues but can reduce waiting times for others. If you cannot attend your appointment and need to reschedule, please reach out to your clinic to set a new date.
  2. Prioritising vulnerable groups: We understand the importance of protecting our vulnerable patients, such as the elderly and children during cold weather. We ask for your understanding as we prioritise their needs on bad weather days, ensuring their safety and well-being.
  3. Safety first: Your safety is important to us. Queueing in the dark poses a security risk, and we encourage visitors to arrive at the facility at least 30 minutes to an hour (depending on the arrangement with your facility) before their appointment, whenever possible. This precautionary measure ensures visibility and enhances overall safety.
  4. Speak to us, be heard: Your feedback matters. Whether it’s concerns about long queues or discomfort during cold weather conditions. Provide suggestions how we can improve services. We are committed to listening and improving our services. Help us serve you better by sharing your feedback with our facility managers through the following channels:
  • SMS: Send the word “Help” followed by your name, the nature of your suggestion or complaint, facility, and, if applicable, the name of a staff member to 31022.
  • Call: Dial 0860 142 142 and press “1” to speak with a representative.
  • Please Call Me: Reach out via 079 769 1207, and we’ll promptly assist you.
  • Email: Send your concerns to service@westerncape.gov.za, and we’ll address them with care and urgency.
  • Share anonymous feedback: Share your concerns by adding your name or remaining anonymous. Simply add your feedback to your facility’s suggestion or complaints box.

Keeping healthy at home this winter

In addition to preparing for your visit, it’s important to protect your overall health during the colder month. Remember to stay proactive by getting your flu vaccine at your local clinic and making healthy choices to keep your immune system strong. Here are some additional tips for staying healthy this winter, including simple steps you can take at home:

  • Get your flu shot: Protect yourself and others by getting the flu vaccine. It’s one of the most effective ways to prevent seasonal flu and its complications. The vaccine, simply put, works by giving our bodies the necessary tools it needs to fight off the flu.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching common surfaces. Use hand sanitiser if soap and water are not available. Remember to assist children by teaching them the importance of keeping their hands clean.
  • Stay active: Exercise regularly to boost your immune system and improve overall health. Even simple activities like walking or stretching indoors can make a difference. Join a community wellness group, if you are able to.
  • Eat a balanced diet: Take care of your body with healthy foods. Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help support your immune system. If you require support, please speak to a healthcare worker who can refer you to a dietitian or social worker for support.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day protects your health. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
  • Get plenty of rest: Prioritise sleep and aim for 8 hours of quality sleep each night. A well-rested body is better equipped to fight infections.
  • Manage stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, speak to someone you trust if you’re feeling stressed or engage in hobbies you enjoy. If you need to speak to someone, remember you can reach out to a healthcare worker or make an appointment for professional support.
  • Take your medication: It is important to continue taking your medication, even if you are feeling better. Take your medication as discussed with your healthcare provider. If you have any questions about your medication, remember to reach out, speak to your healthcare provider or call your clinic.

Help us to keep you healthy and safe this winter, wellness starts with you and me. Remember to reach out if you have any questions or any concerns.

 ENDS

Nadia Ferreira
Principal Communications Officer
Garden Route and Central Karoo Districts
Western Cape Government Health
Tel: 044 813 1831
Email: Nadia.Ferreira@westerncape.gov.za
Website: www.westerncape.gov.za