Despite international efforts, cholera continues to spread in South Africa. Drinking or ingesting contaminated food or water sparks the disease, which causes severe diarrhea, leading to dehydration, the reason for most deaths from cholera. The harsh poverty conditions in which many South Africans live provide near perfect conditions for epidemic outbreaks of cholera. Almost seven years since the end of Apartheid, many South African blacks live in rural townships, massive conglomerations of metal shacks with little or no access to clean, safe water supplies or latrines. Recent studies show that 21 million South Africans live in unsanitary conditions, and at least 8 million do not have access to potable water, according to the Associated Press .
Many people rely on river water for cooking, drinking and washing.
Authorities are urging South Africans to purify water by boiling it or adding bleach. Because vaccination is not very effective in managing cholera outbreaks, government and health officials are fighting the epidemic through the establishment of clean water sources, sanitation, preventative education and quarantine. By responding immediately, we increase our chances of containing cholera. Rehydration centers have been opened to prevent more deaths and treat those infected by the illness. The South African Red Cross, with the help of the Federation, is training volunteers to teach affected villagers about cholera prevention, water safety and hygiene.