Alert Issued Over Suspected Cluster of Child Illnesses in Eastern Cape Town

Health Department Issues Alert Over Suspected Paediatric Illness Cluster in Aberdeen

The Eastern Cape Department of Health has issued a public health alert following the identification of a suspected cluster of paediatric illness cases in the Aberdeen area, located within the Sarah Baartman District.

According to the Department, health facilities recorded an increase in children presenting with similar respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms between 30 January and 3 February 2026. The cases have prompted heightened surveillance and precautionary measures while investigations continue.

Symptoms reported among affected children

The Department confirmed that most children presented with a combination of the following symptoms:

• Fever

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Cough or runny nose

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting and abdominal cramps in some cases

Respiratory symptoms were reported mainly in children under the age of five.

Based on the clustering of cases by time, location and age group, the situation is currently classified as a suspected localised outbreak, pending laboratory confirmation.

Precautionary measures implemented

The Department of Health has confirmed that several precautionary steps have already been put in place, including:

• Heightened surveillance at local health facilities

• Ongoing clinical monitoring of paediatric cases

• Laboratory testing of selected samples

• Environmental health assessments in the affected area

• Health education focusing on hygiene, hydration and early care-seeking

No cause for panic, says Health Department

At this stage, the Department has emphasised that most cases are mild and manageable, and there is no cause for public panic.

Parents and caregivers have been urged to:

• Ensure children remain well hydrated

• Practise regular handwashing and good hygiene

• Seek medical attention early if symptoms persist or worsen, particularly in cases of fever, vomiting or breathing difficulties

The Department has confirmed that it continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide further updates as investigations progress.