The City’s Health Department is squaring up for a busy period, particularly in the Environmental Health arena.

During the Festive Season, there will be an increased focus on the monitoring of drinking water and recreational water in conjunction with Scientific Services, while continuing with their routine operations. These include monitoring:

• Eateries, accommodation and entertainment premises
• Large events and markets
• Enforcement of tobacco legislation in public places
• Dealing with noise complaints

‘The warmer months coincide with breeding of disease organisms that impact on the work of our Environmental Health Practitioners. Add to that the holiday season when people are out and about, and the need for vigilance becomes ever more important. Our staff will keep a close eye on anything that could affect the public’s health and general well-being, in particular water and food safety. The staff will also ensure that establishments abide by noise regulations and tobacco legislation. Given that we’re likely to see large crowds utilising public spaces, the department of Sports and Recreation will ensure that facilities are equipped to deal with health and safety perspectives, said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Zahid Badroodien.

Vendors are encouraged to ensure that they have the relevant documentation and licenses to sell food; establishments are reminded to ensure they are compliant with the provisions of the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Act at all times, and to be mindful of remaining within the prescribed noise levels, particularly if their businesses are in areas that have a residential component.

As part of their operations, City Health staff will continue their education and awareness outreaches on a number of topics, including the prevention/mitigation of diarrheal disease.

The City’s eight Matrix substance abuse treatment centres will continue to offer counselling and treatment to clients, as the festive season presents various challenges for those in recovery, as well as their families.

Clinics will operate as usual, apart from weekends and public holidays, and clients can continue to access the primary healthcare services on offer.

In addition, City Health reminds residents on chronic medication to ensure that they have sufficient stock to get through the festive season, particularly those who are traveling over this period.

‘For clients with chronic conditions, it is crucial to continue taking their medication as prescribed. At this time of year, when our routines tend to fall by the wayside, it is easy to forget, but I appeal to clients to stick to their treatment regimens to avoid any complications. In the event that you are away over the festive season, find a clinic close to your holiday destination and seek assistance. Also, to family and friends, if a loved one is on chronic medication, please remind them daily to take their medication and watch them do it if need be,’ added Councillor Badroodien.

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