Health Department Dispels Seshego Waterborne Disease Claims

The Limpopo Department of Health has moved to dispel widespread claims circulating on social media that children in Seshego died after consuming contaminated water linked to suspected cholera and other waterborne diseases.

In a media statement issued on 5 January 2026, the Department said it noted the reports with concern but stressed that no evidence supports allegations of child deaths or a cholera outbreak in the area.

According to the Department, Seshego Hospital and Polokwane Hospital were placed on high alert from 24 December 2025 to closely monitor patients presenting with symptoms of gastroenteritis, including diarrhoea and abdominal pain.

During December 2025, a total of 122 patients presented at Seshego Hospital with gastroenteritis symptoms. Of these, 26 patients were admitted while 96 were treated and discharged. Health officials noted that the highest number of cases occurred between 19 and 26 December 2025, after which figures returned to normal seasonal levels.

The Department confirmed that no deaths related to gastroenteritis were recorded in the emergency departments of either hospital. Three deaths occurred in adult wards before 20 December 2025; however, investigations found no link to waterborne diseases. Importantly, no child deaths related to gastroenteritis were recorded at either facility.

To rule out waterborne infections, including cholera, ten stool samples were tested for common pathogens. All test results returned negative.

Environmental Health Practitioners from the Capricorn District Municipality, working alongside officials from the Limpopo Department of Health, also conducted water quality assessments in Seshego. Water supplied from the main municipal systems was found to be compliant with required standards.

The Department acknowledged that temporary water quality challenges linked to heavy rainfall were identified but said these were addressed promptly as a precautionary measure. Monitoring has since been intensified, including ongoing water sampling, daily chlorine level checks and strengthened oversight, with samples sent to accredited laboratories for expert analysis.

Health authorities have urged residents to remain calm and rely on verified information from official sources. Communities are encouraged to practise good hygiene, including regular handwashing and boiling water where necessary, and to seek medical attention if symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting occur.

The Department and the municipality are also conducting health promotion campaigns in affected areas to educate residents on water safety and hygiene practices.