In brief
In the Tshwane area, more than 400 people—mostly children—report stomach cramps and diarrhoea after consuming tap water. Lab tests found high levels of E. coli, norovirus, campylobacter and shigella. While no deaths have been reported, the water is declared unfit for drinking and mayoes are being supplied. Residents are told to discard stored water, disinfect containers with bleach, and use water only for flushing toilets.
Residents living near South Africa's capital, Pretoria, have been warned not to drink tap water after more than 400 people, mostly children under four, fell ill.
Hospitals in the Tshwane area recorded cases of stomach cramps and diarrhoea over a two‑week period.
Tests revealed high levels of E. coli and other pathogens such as norovirus, campylobacter and shigella.
There have been no deaths, but authorities have declared the water unfit for drinking and are supplying clean water by tanker.
Officials advise residents to dispose of stored water, disinfect containers with bleach, and only use water for flushing toilets.
