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SA records two more monkeypox disease cases

Location: News

SA records two more monkeypox disease cases

The Department of Health is appealing to citizens who have been in close contact with known or suspected patients of monkeypox disease, also known as Mpox, to go to their nearest health facility. 

This is after the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) detected two more cases of Mpox this week at Addington and St Augustine Hospitals in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. 

“The preliminary case finding report has revealed that the two recent cases had contact with the other previously confirmed case in the province, and this suggests that there is a local transmission of the disease, which could potentially lead to a larger outbreak in the province,” the department said in a statement. 

This brings the total number of laboratory-confirmed infections in the country to four, with three in KwaZulu-Natal and one in Gauteng. 

READ | SA records second case of Mpox

According to the data, all the patients are South African males in their mid to late 30s.

The department said close contact with lesions, sexual contact, body fluids, respiratory droplets and contaminated materials such as bedding transmit the Mpox virus from one person to another. 

The incubation period of Mpox is usually from six to 13 days but can range from five to 21 days. 

“The health officials rely on transparency and cooperation from cases or patients for contact tracing and case finding to determine the rate of transmission of this infectious virus at community level.” 

The department said they were pleased by the patients’ honesty and courage during the investigation process and thanked them for assisting officials in tracing suspected cases who also tested positive. 

“It is through transparency of both confirmed and suspected cases that government can prevent further transmission and avoidable deaths.” 

Meanwhile, the department in collaboration with various stakeholders in the sector is intensifying epidemiology and surveillance, and risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) activities. 

“These will also help to address social stigma, which contributes to people’s decision not to openly speak out because they suspect communities will not accept them due to their health conditions.” 

In most cases, the department said stigma contributes to the spread of the virus thereby making the outbreak and transmission worse.

Symptoms

Some of the common symptoms of Mpox include a rash, which may last for two to four weeks, fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen glands. 

“The painful rash looks like blisters or sores, and can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions,” the department explained. 

However, the department has urged the public not to panic because the situation remains under control and that they will keep the public informed of the situation. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 09:55

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Read moreSA records two more monkeypox disease cases

Hammarsdale based Mathe Group & Van Dyck damps down the sound in London gyms

Location: MyPR

The sound of a heavy barbell hitting the ground or a kettlebell or medicine ball slamming onto a floor, the thump in a gym and bodyweight training and the drone of dance tracks and screeching trainers during fitness and spinning classes have created a whole new class of noise pollution. Add vibrations from equipment and …

Read moreHammarsdale based Mathe Group & Van Dyck damps down the sound in London gyms

New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy

Location: News

New liquid bulk facility to boost Durban’s economy

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a significant Terminal Operator Agreement (TOA) with Mnambithi Terminals, paving the way for the development of a state-of the-art liquid bulk facility at the Port of Durban’s Maydon Wharf Precinct. 

The project, with an investment value of R1.3 billion, will transform the port’s infrastructure, and feature advanced direct rail and road loading capabilities, an on-site truck staging area, and automated loading systems. 

The upgrades will streamline operations and reduce road congestion in the Maydon Wharf area, thereby improving the overall logistical flow.

The agreement signed recently, follows a successful section 79 directive under the National Ports Act of 2005, which underscores the project’s alignment with national strategic and economic goals.

Transnet Group Chief Executive Advocate, Michelle Phillips, said the initiative forms part of Transnet’s broader Recovery Plan aimed at boosting volume recovery and operational efficiencies across its divisions. 

Phillips noted that the project’s completion will not only modernise the port, but also significantly contribute to Durban’s economy by creating over 50 to 100 direct jobs and more than 400 indirect job opportunities for local communities. 

Phillips said the 20-year TOA with Mnambithi Terminals, a 100% Black-owned subsidiary of Mnambithi Group, highlights TNPA’s commitment to fostering transformation and inclusive growth within the port industry. 

“TNPA is deliberate about enabling transformation in the industry and breaking barriers of entry by ensuring inclusion and access for all. We are therefore delighted to welcome Mnambithi Terminals and hope that this strategic relationship will promote the national, strategic, and economic interests of the country, as mandated by Section 79 of the National Ports Act of 2005,” Phillips said.

The project will be executed in two phases, with the initial phase involving the demolition of the existing structures, including foundations, installation of tanks, associated infrastructure, road loading gantry, as well as bulk transfer of pipelines connecting Mnambithi Terminals to the relevant berths to receive liquid cargo. 

The second phase will include the installation of remaining tanks and associated infrastructure. 

eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda commended the move, emphasising its potential to significantly grow the city’s economy. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Thu, 06/06/2024 - 12:19

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Humanitarian aid, service restoration underway in KZN

Location: News

Humanitarian aid, service restoration underway in KZN

The KwaZulu-Natal government remains on the ground to provide humanitarian assistance to the families that have been displaced by devastating floods following heavy rains that have battered parts of the province on Monday night.

The heavy rains, accompanied by strong winds, wreaked havoc in various parts of the province, affecting five districts, including eThekwini Metro, Ilembe, King Cetshwayo, Umzinyathi, Amajuba and Umkhanyakude District Municipalities.

The preliminary reports indicate that at least 11 people have died, and these include seven people from uThongathi in the north of Durban, and four in Nquthu, Eshowe and KwaHlabisa, respectively.

Over 55 people were reported to have suffered minor to moderate injuries and are receiving medical treatment in hospital. 

Dozens of people have also been left homeless after their homes were ripped apart by heavy winds. Three temporary shelters have been established, where the affected families are receiving humanitarian aid.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube has expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of people that have tragically lost their lives, and wished a speedy recovery to the people who were admitted and are recovering in hospital.

Dube-Ncube led a government delegation to various areas in eThekwini Metro on Tuesday to receive a first-hand report on the extent of the damage and ensure a coordinated rapid response from government.

The Premier said the provincial government’s priority is to ensure that the displaced families receive immediate humanitarian relief and to fast-track the restoration of services. 

“We have rallied all government departments to ensure an all-hands on deck approach as we consolidate our rebuilding and recovery plan of action. Our aim is to support affected families to rebuild their lives. 

“Assessments are continuing so that work to repair damaged infrastructure can begin. The assessment reports will give us a clear indication of the extent of the damage and funding that will be required,” Dube-Ncube said. 

She has also urged the municipalities to ensure that all affected people are profiled and receive the necessary support from government.

Immediate humanitarian aid

Disaster management teams are conducting assessments and coordinating humanitarian efforts for the affected families. 

Non-governmental organisations, including the Red Cross, Al-Imdaad Foundation, Gift of the Givers and IPSS Medical Rescue, are working closely with government to ensure the provision of hot meals, mattresses, blankets, food parcels and humanitarian assistance.

uThongathi is currently being classified as the most affected area, with hundreds of houses severely destroyed. Other areas, including Umgababa, south of the eThekwini Metro, Eshowe, Utrecht, Osizweni and KwaHlabisa have also been severely affected. 

Public infrastructure, including schools, roads, community halls and health care facilities, were also affected.

Repairing of infrastructure

The Premier said repairs to damaged transformers and powerlines, which left many areas in the eThekwini Metro without power, have started, and power has been restored in some areas, while work continues to ensure that all areas are fully restored by the end of the week. 

Overhead electricity infrastructure has been severely impacted. This includes infrastructure above-ground, such as electricity poles, transformers and overhead lines.

The heavy rain also resulted in higher levels of turbidity in raw water abstracted from the uThongathi water works and the water works was shut down for few hours. 

The uThongathi water works is presently operating optimally and water supply is being gradually restored.

“Residents are urged to continue to heed weather warnings whenever they are issued to minimise the impact and loss of lives,” Dube-Ncube said. - SAnews.gov.za

 

GabiK
Wed, 06/05/2024 - 09:42

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Read moreHumanitarian aid, service restoration underway in KZN

Radisson Hotel Group targets expansion to 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, doubling its current portfolio

Location: Business
Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group (www.RadissonHotels.com) is proud to announce its goal to reach 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, effectively doubling its current portfolio. This ambitious expansion along with the Group's recent updates to its South African portfolio underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence and contributing to the growth of the South African hospitality industry.

Daniel Trappler, Senior Director of Development, Sub-Sahara Africa at Radisson Hotel Group, shared insights into the Group's strategic approach to reach its ambitious goal of 25 hotels by 2030, stating, "We are prioritizing, through either management or franchise models, conversions for quicker market entry and exploring strategic collaborations with existing management companies to increase our footprint, which presents the potential introduction of the Radisson Individuals brand to South Africa, an ideal first step for individual hotels with strong service scores who may be considering transitioning to one of our other successful core brands at a later stage. We are also seeking opportunities to expand our upper-upscale portfolio and enter the lifestyle luxury market in Cape Town with our Radisson Collection and art'otel brands, leveraging the city's strong tourism performance and our successful existing portfolio.”

Radisson Hotel Group has announced significant updates to its portfolio of operating hotels in South Africa, including:

The debut of its first Safari hotel in South Africa with the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit:

In February Radisson Hotel Group announced the opening of Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit (https://apo-opa.co/3Kwoqy0) its first Safari hotel and 13th hotel in South Africa. This property offers a luxurious safari experience in the heart of South Africa's wildlife region, with premium amenities and exceptional service. Boasting majestic views of the Drakensberg mountains, the highest mountain range in Southern Africa, Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit is surrounded by endless destination-immersing activities.

“Building on the success of our recently opened Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit, we plan to expand into safari and leisure regions like the Kruger National Park and the world-renowned Winelands region surrounding Cape Town. Additionally, we are targeting secondary cities displaying strong hotel demand generators such as Bloemfontein, Pretoria, Durban, and East London, following our successes in Port Elizabeth and Polokwane. In addition, we are also exploring entry into smaller tertiary cities and towns if it aligns with our expansion strategy,” added Trappler.

Extensive Refurbishments at Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg and Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town:

The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel, Sandton Johannesburg (www.RadissonHotels.com), is undergoing a significant renovation, with 60% of the hotel's rooms already completed, enhancing the overall guest experience. This extensive refurbishment features upgraded wooden flooring, stone countertops, local artworks, carefully crafted furniture, and technological upgrades like smart TVs and conveniently located USB ports. This two-phase refurbishment project has already completed its first phase, with each floor and corridor renovated to showcase a new level of contemporary luxury.

The Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town (https://apo-opa.co/3Kvyebp) has announced its highly-anticipated refurbishment plans, reaffirming its commitment to offering guests world-class furnishings and contemporary interior design. Phase one is set to be completed by September 2024, with public Atrium and bedroom renovations expected in July 2024. An expert team of local and international designers has meticulously reviewed and handpicked the design, artwork, fabrics, and raw materials, ensuring an enhanced and stylish hospitality experience.

Rebranding of Park Inn Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore:

In April, Radisson announced the rebranding of Park Inn Cape Town Foreshore to Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore (https://apo-opa.co/3yVxYzK). This rebranding brings the renowned Radisson brand to South Africa's ‘Mother City'. Following an eight-month renovation, Radisson Hotel Cape Town Foreshore's120 rooms now boast a fresh and modern decor that creates a relaxing environment for guests as well as magnificent views of the prominent Table Mountain and the city center. The hotel now hosts South Africa's first Filini restaurant, offering fresh, simple, and delicious Italian-style cuisine with an interactive open-plan kitchen setting. Additionally, the vibrant Harald's Rooftop Bar & Terrace provides an ideal spot to unwind with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain and the cityscape, complete with a perfectly positioned plunge pool for a complete rooftop experience.

“These significant updates to our South African portfolio reaffirm our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences across the country. Our ongoing growth in the region underscore our position as a leading force in the South African hospitality industry. This is just the beginning of a series of exciting announcements for our South African portfolio and the unmatched experiences guests can expect from our hotels,” concluded Sandra Kneubuhler, Country Director of Sales and District Director, South Africa at Radisson Hotel Group.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Connect with Radisson Hotels on: 
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3KrNeHc
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Ku07R3
Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4aNzAJg
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45hQsH2
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3Vq1zu6
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/45hQuPa

About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,350 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group's overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art'otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/3Vu87Ij) is Radisson Hotel Group's loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. 

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/4aU1nHY) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/45hQA9u) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group's portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/45hQC16). 

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Read moreRadisson Hotel Group targets expansion to 25 hotels in South Africa by 2030, doubling its current portfolio

NSRI Respond to Durban Storm

Location: News

On Monday, 3 March, NSRI Durban assisted the emergency services during the heavy storm that rapidly moved over Durban. A statement provided to NSRI, by Konrad Jones of Netcare 911, follows: On the afternoon of Monday, 3 March, the S.T.A.R.T. rescue control room received multiple emergency calls from the greater Durban area reporting a huge …

Read moreNSRI Respond to Durban Storm

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini applauds credible elections

Location: News

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini applauds credible elections

King Misuzulu kaZwelithini has applauded the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) for ensuring that the elections were free, fair and credible.

“His Majesty commends all political parties for the peaceful manner in which they conducted themselves during the campaign and on Election Day,” Traditional Prime Minister to the Zulu Nation and Monarch Rev Thulasizwe Buthelezi said in a statement on Monday.

South Africans went to the polls on 29 May 2024 in the seventh democratic elections. A total of 16 248 027 citizens exercised their Constitutional right to vote.

The elections were declared free and fair by the Electoral Commission in a ceremony held to announce the official election results on Sunday.

The King called upon law enforcement agencies to deal firmly with those who seek to cause “instability and mayhem” in the aftermath of the election results.

“His Majesty instructs all izinduna in hostels around Gauteng and Durban to report any attempts aimed at instigating violence, instability and lawlessness.

“His Majesty is confident that all political leaders will commit themselves to respect the outcomes of the elections and to play their part in promoting peace, development, and stability,” Buthelezi said. - SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Tue, 06/04/2024 - 09:44

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KZN government responds to communities affected by inclement weather

Location: News

KZN government responds to communities affected by inclement weather

The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has responded to several incidents caused by heavy rains accompanied by strong winds and hailstorms that battered parts of the province, which have resulted in extensive damage to households and infrastructure.

According to reports, six people lost their lives following a tornado which ripped apart homes and infrastructure through uThongathi in the north of Durban on Monday.

The storm has also left extensive damage to schools and power lines, leaving many parts of eThekwini without electricity.

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) on Sunday issued a Level 4 alert warning of disruptive rains along the coast of the province, with a high probability of flooding.

In a statement, the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government said the  eThekwini Metro has been hardest hit, and dozens of people are being treated for injuries in health care facilities.

“Early reports indicate that several areas within eThekwini Metro have been affected, with some roads flooded, trees fallen, and significant damage to infrastructure such as power lines and roads. The uThongathi area, in the north of Durban, has recorded the most incidents, with several homes severely damaged, roofs blown off, and trees falling on electricity lines causing power outages.

“Other areas around Durban, including Umgababa, Durban Central, and the western parts of the city, also experienced heavy rainfall, leading to flooding of some households and roads. The strong winds also affected communities in the Amajuba District and Umzinyathi District, where houses were damaged by the strong winds in Newcastle, Dannhauser, Nquthu, and surrounding areas,” the provincial government said.

Disaster teams are currently assessing the extent of the damages, while providing immediate relief, including accommodating displaced residents in government buildings.

The provincial government, through the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), has also coordinated the disaster team from affected municipalities to provide temporary shelter to those who may need it.

“Public facilities have been opened as safe havens for the affected communities as the assessment continues. Roads are being cleared using TLBs [tractor loader backerhoe] to ensure that rescue workers are able to attend to the injured,” the provincial government said.

READ | Heavy rain warning for KZN south coast

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomusa Dube-Ncube is expected to lead a government delegation to visit the uThongathi area for assessment and provision of disaster relief today. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Tue, 06/04/2024 - 09:46

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Gelant sets sights on another Sub-28 finish this time at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

Location: MyPR

Fresh from winning his second national title in four weeks, Elroy Gelant has confirmed that he will line up at the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on Sunday 7 July 2024. Lining up on a course that produced the SA All-Comers Record of 27:16 set by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei in 2018, Gelant knows …

Read moreGelant sets sights on another Sub-28 finish this time at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

Health sector comes together to track progress in confronting TB

Location: News

Health sector comes together to track progress in confronting TB

As part of ongoing efforts to reduce new Tuberculosis (TB) infections and deaths, the country is hosting the 8th SA TB Conference in Durban.

The gathering is an opportunity to track progress towards achieving the 2025 targets set at the United Nations (UN) High-Level Meeting and the 2030 target to end the epidemic in line with the pragmatic End TB Strategy by the World Health Organisation (WHO). 

The conference, said the Department of Health, is being held at the International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal from Tuesday to Friday. The Deputy Minister of Health, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, is expected to deliver a keynote address to officially open the conference on Tuesday at 3pm.

Globally, TB is still a leading cause of death from a single infectious agent and one of the greatest public health threats in South Africa.  

South Africa remains one of the 30 high-burden TB countries contributing to 87% of the estimated incident cases worldwide. 

“It claims approximately 54 000 lives annually or around 148 lives daily in South Africa,” the department said. 

However, government believes it has made strides to ensure that all people with TB have equitable access to high-quality diagnosis, treatment, care and preventive therapy. 

“Data shows that 56% of TB patients experience catastrophic costs as per a recent WHO survey. These include a rollout of shorter regimens with better drugs for the treatment of drug-resistant TB, and the notable launch of the bedaquiline-pretomanid-linezolid-levofloxacin (BPaL-L) programme.” 

Other innovative interventions include the introduction of targeted universal TB testing regardless of symptoms among high-risk groups, the introduction of SMS notifications for reporting test results, and the use of artificial intelligence such as digital chest X-rays in TB screening and diagnosis. 

The four-day biannual conference is expected to “re-energise the TB community” through in-person interactions between local and international stakeholders consisting of policymakers, academics, researchers, government officials, and members of civil society organisations. 

The conference is being held under the theme: “Accelerating progress to end TB”, which serves as a call for all sectors of society to join hands to prevent avoidable deaths from a preventable and curable disease. 

The meeting will consist of insightful sessions designed to cover diverse aspects of the disease and control discussions. 

These include the TB vaccine, infections in mines, insights and innovations towards ending TB, stigma measurement among people, care services and treatment response in children with presumptive pulmonary TB over six months. 

The panellists will also look at the results of community-based TB services targeting migrant workers in the South of Mozambique. 

The department in collaboration with stakeholders in the sector including the South African National AIDS Council (SANAC) is currently implementing the national TB Recovery Plan, which aims to reverse the losses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The aim is to accelerate efforts towards attaining the National Strategic Plan, UN High-Level Meeting, Sustainable Development Goals and End TB targets will be strengthened. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Tue, 06/04/2024 - 10:05

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Read moreHealth sector comes together to track progress in confronting TB

NIVEA welcomed as official skincare partner of the Totalsports Women’s Race

Location: MyPR

The organizers of the Totalsports Women’s Race proudly welcome NIVEA, a global skincare and personal care brand, as the official skincare partner for one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s celebrations. “We are thrilled to partner with NIVEA as the official skincare sponsor for the Totalsports Women’s Race in 2024,” says Nikki Crous, Head of …

Read moreNIVEA welcomed as official skincare partner of the Totalsports Women’s Race

SA records second case of mpox

Location: News

SA records second case of mpox

The Department of Health has urged people experiencing suspected symptoms of mpox disease to visit their nearest healthcare provider for screening and testing to ensure early diagnosis and effective treatment.

This is after the country recorded the second laboratory-confirmed case of mpox disease. 

The new patient is a 39-year-old male who was admitted at Addington Hospital in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, without a travel history to countries and regions currently experiencing the disease outbreak. 

The first case was logged in Gauteng when a 35-year-old man tested positive on 9 May 2024.

The infectious disease is caused by the monkeypox virus and has the potential to cause painful or itchy rash-like pimples or blisters and fever. 

The department working closely with the province and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) has activated contact tracing and case finding to identify and assess people in contact with the patient to prevent further transmission, especially at a household and community level.

“This will also assist to establish if the second case was in contact with the first case confirmed in Gauteng earlier this month.” 

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) a total of 466 laboratory-confirmed cases of mpox and three deaths from 22 countries were reported globally in March 2024. 

According to the department, this illustrates that low-level transmission continues worldwide.

The most affected WHO regions include Africa, Europe, the Americas, the Western Pacific and South-East Asia.

“In the African region, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reports the highest number of confirmed positive cases, which represents just over a tenth of the suspected clinically compatible cases and deaths reported.” 

Meanwhile, the department said stigma and discrimination may prolong a disease outbreak by stopping people from coming forward for information or seeking testing or care, which undermines public health efforts.

“We urge the public and communities to support those who test positive for mpox to take treatment and those with suspected symptoms to go for screening and testing instead of discriminating against them.” 

Meanwhile, South Africa is currently experiencing the annual influenza (flu) season, which started in the week of 22 April 2024. 

According to the department, several flu strains are circulating causing severe health complications in some patients. 

“This has been confused with the COVID-19 variant which has been in circulation with a low level of transmissibility and severity.” 

The most commonly detected and circulating flu is “swine flu” because it causes disease in pigs, followed by influenza B/Victoria and influenza A (H3N2). 

The department said this was not unusual as swine flu has been circulating as one of the annual seasonal flu strains since 2010. 

“Influenza A virus is more severe in adults. About 8% to 10% of patients hospitalised for pneumonia and 25% of patients with flu-like illness such as fever and cough will test positive for influenza during the flu season in South Africa.” 

According to the NICD surveillance data, the numbers of flu cases and positivity rates are increasing rapidly, but the transmission and impact remain at a moderate level of activity for both outpatient and hospitalised cases. 

“This means that while there is a lot of influenza circulating, it is still within the expected range for a normal influenza season. Influenza may cause severe illness leading to hospitalisation or possibly death, especially among those who are at risk of severe influenza illness or complications.” 

High-risk groups include pregnant women, mothers six weeks after delivery, individuals living with HIV, those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, lung disease, tuberculosis, heart disease, renal disease, obesity, the elderly and children under two years old. 

“These groups of people are strongly encouraged to receive the influenza vaccine available freely at public health clinics or a cost from private healthcare providers and through pharmacies.”

Ideally, the vaccine should be administered before the start of the flu season because it takes about two weeks for antibodies to develop, but it is not too late for people to get it to protect themselves and their loved ones against these viruses.

Non-pharmaceutical interventions such as covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing, ventilation, and regular hand washing with water and soap or sanitiser can help to minimise the spread of the disease. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile
Mon, 05/27/2024 - 11:21

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Totalsports Women’s Race continues to Empower Women and support PinkDrive in 2024

Location: MyPR

Promising to be the biggest Women’s Month celebration yet, the Totalsports Women’s Race proudly continues to empower women while supporting PinkDrive in 2024. The event is set to flood the streets of three major cities in an ocean of pink on Sunday, August 4th in Durban, Friday, August 9th in Cape Town, and Saturday, August …

Read moreTotalsports Women’s Race continues to Empower Women and support PinkDrive in 2024

The world’s best head to KZN as South Africa hosts the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup

Location: MyPR

The South African Polocrosse Team will be looking to repeat its 2011 and 2015 winning ways as it takes home-ground advantage in this year’s Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup. Durban Shongweni Club – the equestrian epicentre of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) – will play host to the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup from 19 to 28 …

Read moreThe world’s best head to KZN as South Africa hosts the 2024 Ignition Group Polocrosse World Cup

NSRI Mixed Bag

Location: News

Recent incidents recorded from Saldanha Bay, Plettenberg Bay, Port Edward, Gordons Bay, Durban and Clifton. SALDANHA BAY: Nic Stevens, NSRI Mykonos station commander, said: At 18h00, Wedenesday, 22 May, NSRI Mykonos duty crew launched the NSRI Mykonos rescue craft Spirit of Vodacom to rendezvous with a container motor vessel to medically evacuate a seafarer suffering …

Read moreNSRI Mixed Bag

Top local triathletes set to compete in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 1 Mile event

Location: MyPR

The country’s first-of-its-kind open water swim, the Oceans 8 Charity Swim, welcomes two top contenders to the 1 Mile leg, renowned triathletes Jane Brewer and Glen Gore. These Arena Ambassadors will join competitors at the Durban Undersea Club for this epic charity-fundraising initiative taking place on Saturday, 15 and Sunday, 16 June. With the 1 …

Read moreTop local triathletes set to compete in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 1 Mile event

20 Reasons to Invest in KZN South Coast

Location: MyPR

The KZN South Coast, extending from Umkomaas to Port Edward, presents lucrative investment opportunities, both locally and internationally. Through its collaborative approach, South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) is working with stakeholders to identify and package these unique opportunities for investors. Deborah Ludick Manager, Acting CEO of SCTIE, said the entity is committed to …

Read more20 Reasons to Invest in KZN South Coast

NYO Jazz, Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Announces Debut Tour to South Africa

Location: Entertainment, MyPR

First-ever tour to Africa by one of Carnegie Hall’s three acclaimed National Youth Ensembles to include debut performances in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town from 22 July – 5 August 2024. Program to include big band classics, new arrangements and a new Carnegie Hall-commissioned work by South African composer Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane. Artistic Director and …

Read moreNYO Jazz, Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Announces Debut Tour to South Africa

From a nice-to-have to a need-to-have – South Africa’s 17-year business coaching evolution

Location: MyPR

Business coaching – a discipline that has changed, evolved, and transformed in leaps and bounds since the 1800s. This year marks a milestone for the craft, as ActionCOACH Southern Africa commemorates 17 years of operation. It is a chance to also reflect on the road that brought us here, and the journey ahead for business …

Read moreFrom a nice-to-have to a need-to-have – South Africa’s 17-year business coaching evolution