Rhodes University students face gastrointestinal illness outbreak

More than 100 students at Rhodes University in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, have fallen ill with a gastrointestinal disease. University spokesperson Olwetu Gwanya confirmed that at least 109 students across 15 campus residences have been affected since Sunday.

The exact cause of the illness remains unconfirmed, and officials stated that the outbreak cannot currently be linked to any specific food, water source, or environmental factor. The university is working with local public health authorities and environmental health practitioners to identify the source. In response, the institution has implemented urgent water-quality testing at residences, provided safe drinking water in dining halls, and introduced extra precautions in food preparation.

Local medical practitioners have reported similar gastrointestinal cases within the wider Makhanda community. This health emergency occurs as students prepare for end-of-year examinations and amid broader national concerns regarding municipal water safety and sanitation infrastructure in South Africa.