Molefi Sompane
Since mid-February clinic staff have been telling them that they cannot be helped due to the data-capturing computer system being offline.
The issue, which began in June 2022, has led to multiple protests, with residents accusing the Ngwathe municipality of failing to provide clean water.
Free State Health MEC Viceroy Mahlatsi says his department is struggling to retain staff.
Some residents have lost their homes due to severe weather, including destructive winds.
A pattern of water quality issues has plagued Moqhaka for years, including incidents of alleged contamination in 2020 and unfulfilled promises.
Over 1300 healthcare workers, including nurses, clerks, and cleaners, are facing sudden job termination after Covid-19 contracts were ended due to budget constraints.
This comes after the Bloemfontein facility was closed due to severe infrastructure issues, including electrical, sewer, and ventilation problems.
In response, Map Water stated it was investigating the contamination claims but noted that there is no significant trend of waterborne diseases in the area.
The health professionals raised concerns that the exams required by the councils for registration were significantly different from those they had taken abroad, making it difficult for them to gain approval to work in South Africa.
It’s a highly contagious disease and can be spread through close contact with infected persons, saliva, and faeces.
Community reactions are mixed, with some criticising the clinic staff for delays, while others urge the public to be patient.
The chronic water shortages at Manapo Hospital in Phuthaditjhaba have been linked to organised crime, according to Free State health MEC Viceroy Mahlatsi.