ABERDEEN – The Eastern Cape Department of Health has issued an urgent alert following the identification of a suspected outbreak of childhood illness in Aberdeen, with health facilities recording an unusual increase in young patients presenting with similar symptoms between 30 January and 3 February 2026.
Camagwini Mavovana, spokesperson for the MEC for Health, confirmed that the department is treating the situation as a suspected localised outbreak pending laboratory confirmation.
“We have observed a clustering of cases by time, place and age group, which has prompted us to classify this as a suspected outbreak,” Mavovana said. “However, I want to emphasise that most cases are mild and manageable, and there is no cause for panic among parents and the community.”
The affected children, primarily those under five years of age, have presented with a combination of respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. Most cases include fever, headache, sore throat, cough or runny nose, and loss of appetite. Some children have also experienced vomiting and abdominal cramps, with respiratory symptoms being particularly prevalent in the younger age group.
Mavovana outlined the comprehensive response measures already implemented by the department: “We have immediately heightened surveillance at local health facilities, initiated clinical monitoring of all paediatric cases, and begun laboratory testing of selected samples to identify the cause.”
The department has also deployed environmental health teams to conduct assessments in the Aberdeen area and launched targeted health education campaigns focusing on hygiene practices, proper hydration, and the importance of early medical intervention.
“Our teams are working around the clock to investigate this outbreak and ensure appropriate care for affected children,” Mavovana added.
Health authorities are urging parents and caregivers in the Aberdeen area to remain vigilant while avoiding panic.
“We encourage all parents to ensure their children remain well hydrated, practice regular handwashing and maintain good hygiene standards,” Mavovana advised. “Most importantly, seek medical attention early if symptoms persist or worsen, particularly if children develop persistent fever, vomiting, or breathing difficulties.”
The spokesperson stressed that early intervention has proven effective in managing the current cases, with most children responding well to treatment.
The Eastern Cape Department of Health continues to monitor the situation closely as investigations progress. Laboratory results are pending, which will help determine the exact cause of the outbreak and guide further response measures.
“We are committed to transparency and will provide regular updates to the community as our investigations advance,” Mavovana added. “The health and safety of our children remains our top priority.
“The Department continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as investigations
progress,” Mavovana concluded.
