The Department of Water and Sanitation has confirmed high levels of E. coli in water samples collected at Rhodes University in Makhanda and St Albans Correctional Facility in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
The department has launched an investigation following reports that several people at the two facilities have received medical treatment for symptoms including severe abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, vomiting and dehydration.
Department Director-General Dr Sean Phillips says preliminary test results indicate that the contamination is originating within the water and sewage supply networks at the institutions, rather than from the municipal water distribution system.
Phillips says high levels of E. coli and total coliforms were detected in water samples taken at Rhodes University, while similar contamination was identified at St Albans Correctional Facility.
He says the department is investigating the source of the contamination at both facilities.
The findings have raised concerns about water safety and the potential health risks facing students, staff and inmates.
The department’s investigation is expected to establish how the contamination occurred and what measures are required to address the problem.