Doctors urge responsible celebrations as alcohol-related emergencies spike

The South African Medical Association (SAMA) urges the public to usher in the new year safely and responsibly as festive drinking continues to overwhelm hospitals across the country. 

SAMA chairperson Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa says there is a surge in medical emergencies, particularly on New Year’s Eve, which is often linked to high alcohol consumption.

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Hospitals and emergency units are facing pressure with a high number of patients receiving services on Christmas and Boxing Day. 

“The Western Cape, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal provincial health departments have reported significant pressure on emergency services.

“We are dealing with shortages of both staff and equipment in the hospitals, so you can imagine where you exhaust those, they are very scarce." 

Mzukwa urges the public to play their role by ushering in the New Year with caution.

“Everyone should be very cautious, especially when driving at night, because that is when things happen.” 

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To listen to Mzukwa in conversation with Ray White (in for 702’s Bongani Bingwa), use the audio player below: