Media Release: First Garden Route District Safety Forum for this year hosted by the Garden Route
For immediate release 21 February 2025
Yesterday, 20 February 2025, the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) hosted the first District Safety Forum meeting for this year at the Joint Operation Centre of the municipality.
Stakeholders at the District Safety Forum meeting held at the Joint Operation Centre of the GRDM.
The Portfolio Chairperson of Community Services, Cllr Jobieth Hoogbaard, highlighted the importance of working together, not only as spheres of government but a whole of society approach to ensure a safer District for all. Hoogbaard informed the meeting that the GRDM is currently in discussions with the South African Police Service on how the District might be able to share and strengthen collective resources. “This will be to ensure a more coordinated and effective response to address the current situation, as well as foreseen safety and security challenges of the District”.
The main objectives of the meeting was for all stakeholders to provide progress reports on their current safety and security related programs and projects funded as part of the Provincial Whole of Society Approach grant. In addition, the meeting also endeavoured to prioritise the projects and programs to be funded for the remainder of this financial year.
The seven local municipalities of the Garden Route (Kannaland, Hessequa, Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn and Bitou), were requested to compile business plans that speak to their specific needs as captured – as part of their local safety plans. They were also prompted to indicate their specific needs for inclusion as part of the 25/26 Garden Route District Safety Forum business plan. This proactive approach will ensure that GRDM’s future project proposals are aligned with the district’s most pressing safety priorities.
Feature Image: The first Garden Route District Safety Forum of the year held on 20 February 2025.
Media Release: GRDM and stakeholders roll out a Recognition of Prior LearningOccupational Firefighting Certificate
For immediate release 21 February 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) is pleased to announce the commencement of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Occupational Firefighting Certificate Programme. “This initiative reflects GRDM’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the skills and expertise of firefighters in the region,” said Ald. Nompumelelo Sumeia Ndayi, MMC for Corporate Services.
Information sessions with candidates from the Heidelberg and Riversdale regarding the RPL Programme.
The Occupational Certificate: Firefighting, is a national qualification that equips firefighters with the necessary skills and knowledge to respond to emergency situations. Being designed to recognise the prior learning and experience of firefighters, it will allow them to obtain the Occupational Certificate without undergoing the full training program.
The RPL programme offers several benefits to firefighters, including enhanced career prospects as it is a recognised qualification that can enhance career prospects and opportunities for advancement. It will furthermore provide firefighters with recognition of their prior learning and experience, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.
The RPL programme will be implemented in partnership with the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA) and other stakeholders, including Hessequa Municipality, Kannaland Municipality, Bitou Municipality, Central Karoo District Municipality, Prins Albert Municipality, and Beaufort West Municipality. The rollout will occur in phases, with Phase 2 focusing on Candidate Self-Evaluation and the Formative Assessment Agreement.
Mayor Andrew Stroebel also added that the GRDM is committed to providing opportunities in the field of firefighting and providing necessary skills and knowledge to respond to emergency situations. “This RPL programme is an important process, aiming to improve their career prospects, by formally recognising their skills, knowledge and experience.”
Feature Image: Chief Fire Officer, Deon Stoffels (2nd from left), addressing the candidates from Hessequa during the information session.
GRDM Celebrates Home-Based Care Certificate Ceremony
20 February 2025
Today, the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), under the umbrella of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM), proudly celebrated the graduation of 72 home-based learners who have successfully completed their training program funded by the Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA). The ceremony, held at the African Skills Centre in George, was attended by political leaders, municipal officials, dignitaries from the private sector, learners, and their families.
The event was directed by Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator of Skills Development, and officially opened by GRDM Mayoral Committee Chairperson for Community Services, Alderlady Ndayi, who welcomed guests and set the tone for the proceedings. Part and parcel of her work is to oversee everything relating to Corporate Services, of which the GRSM forms part of.
Ald. Sumeia Ndayi, MMC of Corporate Services, proudly handing over certificates during the ceremony.
Reginald Salmons, GRDM Coordinator of Skills Development.
Ald. Sumeia Ndayi was followed by Cllr Roelfse, George Municipality’s MMC for Social Development and Sport, who delivered a message of support on behalf of George Municipality, commending the District Municipality for rolling out this remarkable programme.
Pastor Clifford Sheldon of Hope Family Church delivered an inspiring message, using the Word of God to encourage and motivate the learners as they embark on their new journey. He concluded his remarks with an appeal to the learners, saying: “Don’t stop dreaming, don’t stop learning, don’t stop training yourself, because the best is yet to come. You have stood up in a time like this because this is not just work, but a calling you are entering.”
Clifford Sheldon, former GRDM employee, delivering an inspiring message during the ceremony.
Dr. Florus Prinsloo, former Project Coordinator of the GRSM and custodian of the programme, sharing valuable insights during the ceremony.
In 2023, GRDM received a R5.2 million investment to train unemployed individuals as Home-Based Care Personal Assistants across all seven local municipalities in the Garden Route. Throughout the programme, learners gained both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience at various training venues. They also received a monthly stipend, and late last year, they wrote their final IESA Exams, which served as their final assessment. Today, their hard work and dedication were rewarded as they received their certificates of completion, marking a significant milestone in their journey.
A very proud Dr. Florus Prinsloo, former Project Coordinator of the GRSM and custodian of the programme, provided a brief background and overview of the Skills Mecca Home-Based PA Project. He began his presentation with a powerful quote from Albert Einstein: “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” His reflections highlighted the importance of investing in skills development to empower communities and address unemployment.
Elsie Harmse, CEO of UXI/Africa Skills Village in George, shared insights into the students’ training experience, providing a glimpse into their journey toward successfully completing the programme. She encouraged the learners to make a difference wherever they go, emphasizing that this has always been the core objective of the African Skills Centre—to positively impact people’s lives.
The keynote address was delivered by Zubeyda January, Provincial Manager of HWSETA, who emphasized the importance of building partnerships to enhance skills development and create sustainable employment opportunities.
January expressed gratitude for the hard work and dedication that contributed to the project’s success. She stated: “It takes people with empathy, compassion, patience, and responsibility to choose a career in home-based care. At HWSETA, we have witnessed firsthand the rare characteristics you demonstrated during our visits to the different care centres, where learners practiced their skills under the supervision of their assigned mentors.”
In conclusion, January thanked all partners, including GRDM, African Skills Village, and officials from her department, and most importantly, the learners for their hard work and perseverance in making the project a success.
Zodwa Nqcwangu and Thobeka Jali, two beneficiaries of the programme, expressed their heartfelt gratitude on behalf of their fellow learners. They thanked GRDM and all partners present for the opportunity to be part of the programme and for the unwavering support provided throughout their training.
Many of the graduates have already secured employment opportunities, with some being offered positions at the host employers where they completed their practical training. This serves as clear evidence that investing in people is investing in the future.
Michelle Smit, Acting Executive Manager of Corporate Services, thanked all role-players for their invaluable contributions in making the project a tremendous success.
The Home-Based PA Project is an initiative rolled out by the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM). The project was coordinated by Dineo Ramasesane, one of twelve (12) Garden Route Skills Mecca Technicians, based at GRDM’s Economic Development Unit. She provided project management assistance, facilitated the programme’s monthly meetings, and ensured continuous feedback and updates to GRDM.
Featured Image Caption: A group picture of all the learners and stakeholders who attended the graduation ceremony, celebrating the success of the Home-Based Care Training Programme.
Media Release: Garden Route Mall jumps in, and the Outeniqua Wheels start spinning
20 February 2025
George, Garden Route (February 2025) – Much has been penned in local publications and posted on social media about the fabulous joint effort made by George businesses and provincial bodies to get this year’s Outeniqua (Wheel)Chair Challenge (OCC) back on track.
The event takes place on 15 March, with Carpe Diem School once again serving as race hub. Participation in the 5km fun event is free for participants from George.
One of the biggest contributions came, literally overnight, from the Southern Cape’s foremost shopping centre. Garden Route Mall general manager, Rion Olivier, explains: “Around 5am on a Friday morning I saw the previous day’s George Herald article about the OCC being postponed for lack of funds. I immediately forwarded the info to our stakeholders and CEO, saying ‘We need to jump in here’.”
“It’s a unique event, the first in South Africa to focus exclusively on athletes who are physically challenged. Having known the late OCC founder, Esther Watson, it’s an event I’m really passionate about. This year, the OCC celebrates over two decades of the community taking hands, but of course Covid has had its impact and all businesses have had to recover, which is why the 21st OCC event was at risk of not taking place. That would have been a shame.”
“We understand that sponsorships for the race were limited during this recovery period, and it took us only 24 hours to make the call. Halfway through our financial year, business is going well at Garden Route Mall, and it was a pleasure to pledge R250,000 towards this excellent cause,” says Olivier.
Presented by the Disabled Road Race Foundation, OCC25 is also supported by the Western Cape Government, George Municipality, Master Cargo, Lancewood, Safari, Garden Route District Municipality, George Herald, AlgoaFM, and iX; many of these sponsors have previously been involved, and organisers thank them as well as new backers on the OCC block.
On Saturday 15 March, the OCC will be hosted for the 21st time and once again cyclists in the starting line-up of pro races will include stars of the South African Paralympic Team, as well as racers from Ghana, Botswana, Namibia and other continental neighbours.
The only race of its kind in the country, the OCC serves as a major economic and tourism boost for George. But most importantly, it is an occasion greatly anticipated by scores of members of SA’s disabled community every year.
Race director Alewijn Dippenaar says this year’s 5km fun event will be free for local participants, and he invites young and old to join in the name of community spirit. “The professional races over 10km, 21.1km and the 42.2km marathon attract world-class athletes, and this combination of fun and pro participants makes our George event a true flagship event for SA para-cyclists.”
Entries close on 28 February and event registration takes place on 14 March from 11am to 6pm at the Carpe Diem grounds. Download entry forms at www.outeniquachairchallenge.co.za and contact Alewijn Dippenaar on 082 457 5675 or at dyndev@mweb.co.za for more information or to contribute towards OCC25!
Press release on behalf of the Disabled Road Race Foundation:
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mimi finestone | mimi@gojipr.net | +27 84 583 3144
Twenty GRDM Roads Employees successfully complete ‘Dangerous Goods’ Training
For immediate release 20 February 2025
Recently, twenty (20) Roads employees from the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) successfully attended and completed one-year Dangerous Goods training. This initiative was aimed at equipping employees with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle, transport, and store hazardous materials safely and in compliance with legal and organisational regulations.
“I am incredibly proud of our Roads employees for successfully completing the rigorous ‘Dangerous Goods’ training. Their dedication to enhancing their skills and knowledge demonstrates a strong commitment to not only their own safety but also the safety of our communities,” said GRDM Mayor Andrew Stroebel
All participants in the programme are stationed within the Garden Route district, playing a crucial role in ensuring road safety and the effective management of hazardous substances. The training was structured to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling employees to navigate the complexities of transporting dangerous goods with confidence and competence.
The Dangerous Goods Training is essential in workplaces that involve the movement of potentially harmful materials. It enhances workers’ ability to identify risks, apply best practices, and ensure adherence to safety standards when loading, conveying, and off-loading dangerous goods.
Key Topics Covered:
During the training, employees engaged in in-depth discussions and practical exercises focused on the following key aspects:
Compliance with Legal Documentation Requirements: Understanding the necessary legal documentation and regulatory obligations associated with transporting hazardous materials.
Application of Safety and Standard Operating Procedures: Ensuring the correct protocols are followed during the loading and off-loading of dangerous goods to minimize risks.
Incident Response Procedures: Learning how to effectively respond to and manage incidents involving hazardous materials to prevent harm to personnel, the public, and the environment.
Adherence to SANS 10231 Requirements: Understanding and complying with the South African National Standard (SANS) 10231 regarding safe behaviour and operational conduct while transporting dangerous goods.
With these critical topics covered, participants are now well-equipped to apply their newfound expertise in real workplace scenarios. They can confidently and safely transport dangerous goods in line with legal, safety, and industry standards, while also being prepared to manage potential incidents effectively.
Upon successful completion of the programme, all learners were assessed and declared competent. These certifications and permits affirm their ability to handle dangerous goods responsibly and in full compliance with regulations.
The GRDM commends the dedication of its Roads employees in completing this vital training. Their commitment to safety and compliance ensures that dangerous goods are managed with the highest level of professionalism, ultimately contributing to a safer working and public environment.
Feature image: Facilitator of the Dangerous Goods Training programme, Elton Olivier from Victoria Driving School (right), with the GRDM Roads employees who successfully completed the Dangerous Goods training.
NOTICE OF A SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON 25 February 2025 AT 11:00
Notice is hereby given that a SPECIALCOUNCIL MEETING of the Garden Route District Municipality will be held at the CA Robertson Council Chambers and via Zoom, 54 York Street, George, on 25 February 2025 at 11:00.
Media Release: Garden Route District Municipality Assists Vulnerable Communities in Disaster Recovery Efforts
12 February 2025
The Emergency Call Centre, a crucial component of the Garden Route District Municipality (GRDM) Disaster Management Centre (DMC), handles approximately 25,000 emergency calls per month. However, disaster management extends far beyond immediate incident response—it encompasses four key pillars:
Mitigation
Preparedness
Response
Recovery
Disaster management also includes planning and development, ensuring a proactive approach to both natural and human-made disasters. Beyond coordinating responses during major incidents, the DMC continuously works to enhance the district’s resilience against disaster risks.
DISASTER REHABILITATION AND RECONSTRUCTION EFFORTS
The GRDM DMC is responsible for facilitating local disaster declarations and motivating funding requests from both provincial and national governments for disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Currently, GRDM DMC is overseeing the implementation of several disaster rehabilitation projects, including:
2021/22 Flood Disaster Grants:
George: R237.5 million
Oudtshoorn: R26.6 million
2023 Storm Surge Disaster Grants:
Knysna: R2.6 million
Hessequa: R5.18 million
June 2024 Floods:
A disaster grant request of R115 million has been submitted to the National Disaster Management Centre and National Treasury and is currently pending approval.
RELIEF TO COMMUNITIES IN NEED
GRDM DMC plays a crucial role in ensuring that disaster-affected communities receive urgent assistance.
Emergency Water Relief – Gamka West (Calitzdorp) | 26 January 2024
After residents of Gamka West, who rely on the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme, were left without water for over four days, GRDM DMC dispatched a water tanker from the Ladismith Fire Base to deliver several loads of water to affected families.
GRDM Firefighters recently assisted families after they were left without water from the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme for four days.
Storm Damage Relief – Volmoed (Oudtshoorn) | 29 January 2024
Following heavy rain and gale-force winds, 32 households in Volmoed, outside Oudtshoorn, were left destitute. Responding to a request from the GRDM Deputy Mayor, GRDM DMC provided:
52 blankets to the Oudtshoorn Municipality for evacuated residents housed in a local church hall.
The Oudtshoorn Municipality also distributed 32 mattresses and 32 starter kits to affected families.
GRDM DMC facilitated additional support from the Gift of the Givers, who provided food relief to affected individuals the following day.
A property in Volmoed that was severely damaged after rain and gale-force winds.
STRENGTHENING WATER AND SANITATION SECURITY
Recognising the importance of water security, GRDM DMC is spearheading the development of a District Water and Sanitation Master Plan. This initiative focuses on identifying and implementing bulk water and sanitation projects across municipal boundaries to enhance water security for all residents in the district.
The GRDM is assisted by the Western Cape Economic Development Partnership (WCEDP) to develop this Master Plan. The assistance of the company Partners in Performance (PiP) was subsequently obtained to develop this District Water and Sanitation Master Plan. At this point in time most of the technical information required, have been obtained from the current Water Services Authorities in the District. PiP is currently busy analysing this data.
The GRDM is working towards having a first draft available by the end of March this year.
DISASTER RISK REDUCTION
The DMC also assists local municipalities in developing Disaster Risk Reduction Plans (DRR) ensuring alignment with local risk assessments.
It is important to remember that DRR should always be a holistic multi‐hazard/threat and multi‐stakeholder approach, and it should be mainstreamed into development projects to increase the resilience of the built environment.
DRR must be considered and where relevant implemented at the earliest appropriate stage of the design and planning process rather than added onto a project as an after‐thought. It is important to build back better, especially when opportunities arise in the aftermath of a disaster. Professional institutions can play a very positive role in educating students and members about their roles in disaster risk reduction.
DRR Plans vary for each local municipal area with the focus on addressing the following priority disaster risks in the District, namely flooding, fires – especially wildland fires, drought, coastal as well as river erosion, transportation incidents including Hazmat incidents as well as human and animal diseases .
Some of these plans include the following:
Flood hazard mapping linked to the Spatial Development Framework of each Local Municipality.
Emergency breaching of estuaries protocol and the pro-active management of low-lying flood prone areas.
Eradication of invasive alien plants.
Protection of riverbanks – especially in the Duiwenhoks River.
Establishment of integrated fire management protocols.
Public awareness campaigns.
District Safety Forum as well as establishment of Local safety Forums.
Building back better as an integral part of post disaster rehabilitation and reconstruction projects.
When these plans are updated, they form part of spatial development frameworks. This ensures that that emerging disaster risks are factored into planning of town infrastructure.
Feature image: GRDM Firefighters recently assisted families after they were left without water from the Klein Karoo Rural Water Supply Scheme for four days.
PUBLIC NOTICE OF 2023/2024 ANNUAL REPORT AND OVERSIGHT REPORT
Notice 05/2025
Notice is hereby given in terms of Section 129(3) of the Local Government: Municipal Finance Management Act, 2003 (Act 56 of 2003) that the Garden Route District Municipal Council hereby makes the Oversight Report on the Annual Report for the 2023/2024 financial year public.
The 2023/2024 Annual Report was also approved in a Council Meeting on 30 January 2025.
The 2023/2024 Annual Report and OversightReport is available at all main local libraries, satellite offices and the Garden Route District Municipality’s IDP Unit, 54 York Street, George and on the GRDM municipal website www.gardenroute.gov.za.
For further enquiries, please contact: Mrs. M James (IDP Unit) Tel no: 044 803 1431
Media Release: The 2017 Knysna Fires vs. 2025 California Wildfires
6 February 2025
Wildfires have long posed a major threat to communities worldwide. Two (2) of the most deadly fires in recent history occurred in vastly different regions: the Knysna and Bitou Wildfires in South Africa (2017). Now also abroad – the most recent California wildfires (2025). Despite geographical differences, both events share alarming similarities in their causes, impacts, and lessons for the future.
Weather and Climatic Conditions
On 7 January 2025, Santa Ana winds exceeding 161km/h drove wildfires in California, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires. As a result of severe drought conditions, this situation was even worse. As a result of low humidity and strong winds, fire spread across Los Angeles. A gale-force north-westerly Berg Wind reaching 120 km/h fueled the Knysna fires on 7 June 2017.
A prolonged drought had left vegetation dry, exacerbating fire intensity. The fires consumed 19,000 hectares of plantations and indigenous forest and led to widespread destruction in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Palisades Fire – Los Angelas County 2025
Knysna Fires – 2017 Photo credit: Edward Stander
Warnings and Preparedness
Both regions received early weather warnings. In California, the National Weather Service issued Red Flag Warnings days before the fires, highlighting extreme fire risk. Despite these warnings, the wildfires overwhelmed emergency responses.
In the Western Cape, the South African Weather Service warned of a major storm expected on 6 June, prompting school closures and disaster management activation. The strong winds fuelled the fires instead of bringing anticipated rain.
Emergency Response
California mobilised extensive resources, including 7 500 emergency personnel, 65 fire engines, and military support. Private firefighters were also deployed to protect high-value properties.
In Knysna, firefighting efforts included nearly 1 200 firefighters from various Municipalities, the City of Cape Town, local forestry companies, private firefighters, and Working on Fire (WOF) crews, as well as aerial water bombers Working on Fire, the South African National Defence Force, and Savanah Helicopters. Emergency operations were coordinated through a Joint Operating Centre in Knysna, as well as Multi Agency Coordinating Centre at the Western Cape Provincial Disaster Management Centre. Despite efforts, the fire spread uncontrollably, forcing thousands to evacuate, this being the only safe option at the time.
Destruction and Loss
The 2025 California wildfires burned nearly 40,000 acres, destroyed 16,255 structures, and claimed at least 29 lives. The fires forced more than 100,000 people to evacuate, making them some of the most devastating in the state’s history. The economic loss for the USA is about one trillion sixty-nine billion eight hundred fifty-five million Rands.
The Knysna Fires left seven dead, burned 16,000 hectares, and displaced 10,000 people. More than 900 structures were either damaged or destroyed, with economic losses estimated at four and a half billion rands.
Environmental and Urban Planning Factors
Fuel loads played a significant role in both disasters. In Knysna, invasive alien vegetation, such as black wattle and pine plantations, contributed to extreme fire intensity. Studies confirm that fuel loads in plantations and invaded areas were significantly higher than in natural fynbos. Some natural fynbos were encroached with alien invasive species.
Similarly, in California, a build-up of dry vegetation due to prolonged drought and extreme wind, created conditions primed for wildfires. Invasive plants such as Harding grass and yellow star thistle further exacerbated fire spread.
Post-Fire Consequences
Following both disasters, heavy rains triggered mudslides and flash floods, exacerbating further negative impacts. In Knysna, five months after the fires, burned mountain slopes contributed to severe mudslides. In California, post-fire rains led to toxic ash runoff and landslides, further endangering residents.
Lessons Learned
Both wildfires highlight the need for proactive fire management and climate adaptation strategies. Key takeaways include:
Fuel Load Reduction: Managing invasive vegetation and reducing combustible materials through controlled burns and firebreaks, and other innovative measures can mitigate risks.
Urban Planning: Fire-resistant landscaping, strategic buffer zones, and defensible spaces are crucial for minimizing damage.
Preparedness & Early Response: Investing in predictive modelling, community awareness, and emergency planning is essential for minimizing losses.
Climate Change Action: Both disasters underscore the impact of rising temperatures and prolonged droughts on wildfire intensity, emphasizing the urgency for global climate mitigation strategies.
The Knysna/Bitou and California wildfires serve as stark reminders of the evolving wildfire threat. As climate change accelerates, regions must adopt proactive fire management, enforce strict land-use policies, and enhance emergency preparedness to prevent future catastrophes.
Media Release: GRDM’s Bitou EHPs and Kurland Clinic Staff Host Norovirus and Health & Hygiene Awareness Session
For immediate release 05 February 2025
The Garden Route District Municipality’s (GRDM) Bitou Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP), in collaboration with the Western Cape Provincial Department of Health’s nursing staff at Kurland Clinic, recently conducted an informative awareness session on the Norovirus.
Stakeholders also focused on informing community members about the critical importance of health and hygiene practices.
The GRDM and Kurland Clinic team are (FLTR): Sophia Marthinus and Zoleka Goniwe (GRDM EHPs), Lee Ann Joubert (GRDM Disaster Management), Sr. Zainab Hendricks (Kurland Clinic), Nokuphiwa Mbali (GRDM EHP) and Sr. Ronelle Sampson (Kurland Clinic).
The team provided comprehensive insights into the symptoms and effects of the virus, preventive measures to curb its spread, proper health and hygiene practices, symptom management, and recognizing signs of dehydration with appropriate responses. The heightened need for vigilance during peak seasons when Norovirus cases typically surge, was also raised.
In the second part of the program, the GRDM team conducted a step-by-step demonstration of proper handwashing techniques, highlighting that handwashing remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of Norovirus. They also demonstrated how to prepare a Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS), explaining its crucial role in preventing dehydration. The importance of staying hydrated was repeatedly stressed, with the team noting that “early hydration is critical to managing symptoms and preventing severe dehydration.” Participants were advised to seek immediate medical assistance if symptoms persisted.
Throughout the session, it became clear to attendees that hand hygiene plays a vital role in breaking the transmission chain of Norovirus.
Participants expressed a heightened understanding of Norovirus, the significance of proper handwashing, and the preparation and use of the SSS. They also gained valuable knowledge on managing hydration effectively. The session was interactive, with many questions from the attendees, and was well-received by all.
What is Norovirus?
Norovirus is a type of viral gastroenteritis causing inflammation of the stomach and intestines.
Symptoms
Nausea; vomiting, and
diarrhoea and abdominal pain.
How Norovirus spread
Contaminated food,
water,
surfaces, and
person-to-person contact.
Sugar-Salt Solution (SSS):
Mix 1 liter of clean water with 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Sip slowly throughout the day.
Should anyone develop symptoms, they are reminded to stay well hydrated
Signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, and dizziness.
In cases of severe dehydration, seek immediate medical attention.
Encouraged caregivers to watch for symptoms in vulnerable individuals, such as children and the elderly.
