14 dead in Listeria outbreak in Joburg
Member of Mayoral Committee (MMC) Mpho Phalatse in Johannesburg says fourteen people have died following an outbreak of the food borne disease.
Phalatse says in total 172 patients have contracted the disease.
Listeria can be found in food products such as meat, all animal products, dairy products, fruit and vegetables.
"The City of Johannesburg has mobilised its outreach response teams, creating awareness, ensuring people understand what Listeria is," Phalatse says.
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Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi confirmed the outbreak of the disease earlier this week, saying there there is no need to panic as it is treatable with antibiotics.
Screenings at the city's medical centres will intensify.
"We are also using environmental health to engage our food handlers in the formal and informal trade to ensure that they adhere to good hygiene practices," Phalatse says.
At least 36 have died already of the disease nationally.