Health officials in the Western Cape have raised the alarm over a noticeable increase in children presenting with severe gastro-related symptoms, warning that young children are especially vulnerable to rapid, life-threatening dehydration if treatment is delayed. The Western Cape health department said the province’s specialist paediatric facility, the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, has recorded a worrying rise in cases of gastroenteritis, an illness marked by diarrhoea and vomiting, as the high-risk season takes hold. Prof Heloise Buys, head of ambulatory and emergency services at the hospital, said gastroenteritis is among the most common reasons children are admitted during this time of the year.
“While many children can be treated at home, young children are especially vulnerable to dehydration, which can become life-threatening if not managed early,” Buys said. According to the World Health Organisation, nearly 1.7-billion cases of childhood diarrhoeal disease occur globally each year. In the Western Cape, health authorities see a seasonal spike in diarrhoea and pneumonia among young children between November and May.
The department said these illnesses are common but stressed they are treatable and often preventable. Early intervention remains the most important factor in protecting children’s health and preventing severe complications. Buys warned that diarrhoea can become dangerous very quickly in babies and young children because of their small body size and rapid fluid loss.
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“Parents and caregivers should seek medical attention immediately if a child develops diarrhoea,” she said. The Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital has urged parents and caregivers to remain vigilant, noting that early recognition of symptoms and timely treatment can prevent severe dehydration and hospitalisation. “Good hygiene, safe drinking water and proper sanitation can prevent many of these illnesses,” Buys said.
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