Several areas near Tzaneen in Limpopo are experiencing an outbreak of water-borne disease, Bilharzia. The parasitic infection has been detected in areas such as Nkowankowa, Khujwana and Dan villages.
More than 140 learners from Malwandla Primary School were diagnosed with the condition. The health department says the children were treated with anti-parasitic medication.
Water supply at communities such as Petanenge, Mohlaba, Sasekani and Zangoma villages is inconsistent.
There has been an increase in cases of the Bilharzia water parasite in the broader area. The hardest hit since the re-emergence of the disease are schools neighbouring the Letsitele River.
Health department spokesperson Neil Shikwambana is calling on parents to have their children tested immediately if they show symptoms.
