GEORGE NEWS FLASH - The Kaaimans River and river mouth area have been reopened to the public for recreational activities.
This follows the closure of the river yesterday, when it came to light that an elderly bather had died from a waterborne bacteria (Vibrio vulnificus).
The man apparently died from organ failure after swimming in the river near the Map of Africa.
It is yet to be established if the deceased, who was in his 80s, had contracted the bacteria in Kaaimans.
Extensive tests are being conducted and the public has been warned to treat the area as they would during a red tide.
Press release from Eden District Municipality:
Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium found naturally worldwide in warm coastal waters. It is a rare cause of disease. There is no association with sewage contamination.
Transmission is from eating raw or undercooked shellfish, particularly oysters harvested from warm waters. Infections may occur when open soft tissue wounds are exposed to warm estuaries.
Persons with underlying medical conditions, any chronic condition especially liver disease and diabetes, may be at increased risk of serious infection. Infections are seasonal and 85% occur in the summer months. Transient environmental factors such as warm water and moderate salinity can increase the number of Vibrio vulnificus in shellfish.
Infection may occur in a pre-existing wound and cause soft tissue infection with severe pain or cause diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Any of these symptom need medical attention.
- Click here for recommendations for reducing the risk of Vibrio vulnificus infection
- Read a previous article: Kaaimans River closed
'We bring you the latest George, Garden Route news'
