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The Free State MEC for Agriculture, Rural Development and Environmental Affairs, Elzabe Rockman, warns members of the public not to swim in the Krugersdrif Dam, located on the R64 between Bloemfontein and Dealesville.
This follows the reported cases of suspected bilharzia infections between February and March 2025. The suspected cases were reported after two visitors who recently swam in the dam presented with symptoms consistent with bilharzia infection.
Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, is an infection caused by a parasitic worm that lives in fresh water in subtropical and tropical regions.
Furthermore, the fresh water bodies become contaminated by infected animals or human urine and faeces. The parasite enters the human body by penetrating the skin and then migrating to the liver and other organs.
It is reported that infection symptoms include, among others, itchy skin, chills, headache, cough, joint pain, and muscle ache.
MEC Rockman appeals to members of the public who have recently swam in the said dam or river course and suspect that they may have been infected to visit their nearest health facility for urgent medical attention.
“The health and safety of our communities remain our priority. We therefore urge the public to exercise extreme caution and help us ensure a safe environment for everyone. We are working with the Departments of Health and Water and Sanitation to further investigate the matter,” said MEC.
Members of the public will be updated as soon as all investigations are concluded.
