Drought could lead to rise in water-borne diseases
The South African Medical Association (SAMA) on Monday warned the country could expect a surge in water-borne diseases as temperatures climb and the drought in many provinces worsen.
“The direct and indirect consequences of climate change – with five South African provinces already declared drought disaster areas – would see increases in malaria, dysentery, cholera and dengue, compromised drinking water, a loss in production and food security and an increase in extreme weather events,” SAMA said in a statement.
The organisation, which represents medical practitioners, said it would continue working with the health department, as well as the department of environmental affairs, to tackle a “desperate climate change emergency situation”.
“Human health is a priority sector in responding to climate change and we commend the government for identifying it as such,” said SAMA chairman Mzukisi Grootboom.
ANA
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