Michael Nkalane
A MEDICAL response team has been activated following the recent outbreak of meningitis in Mossel Bay, where 38 cases have been recorded since December.
The provincial Department of Health confirmed 37 of the cases were children.
Spokesperson Mark van der Heever said a response team was activated within the area to do contact tracing and follow up with people who might have come into contact with the virus.
“We now have 38 confirmed meningitis cases, 37 children and one adult. All have been discharged.
This is not the bacterial form (known as meningococcal) of meningitis. In South Africa seasonal peaks occur, especially in warmer months.
A local response team was activated after an increase in the number of cases admitted to hospital. The situation is being monitored to contain the spread of the disease,” he said.
He said the meningitis was common and usually cleared up on its own in seven to 10 days.
Life Bay View Private Hospital in Mossel Bay confirmed they have been treating patients with meningitis since December.
“It is not easy to say how many we have treated as they come and go,” said spokes- person Elzaan Moelich.
The common signs and symptoms to look out for are fever, a headache, a stiff neck, tiredness, sensitivity to light, a rash or sore throat, while vomiting can also occur.
Van der Heever urged that a doctor be contacted immediately if someone suffers a loss of consciousness, has fits (seizures), muscle weakness or a rash consisting of dark, red discolorations all over the body. He said people can prevent infection by practising safe hygiene.
“The virus is spread through contact with contaminated stool,” he said.
According to a Life Bay View statement, Life Healthcare confirmed that a number of enteroviral meningitis cases were treated in the hospital in recent weeks due to the suspected community outbreak.
“Enteroviral meningitis outbreaks are seasonal and similar suspected outbreaks are being reported elsewhere in the country at present. All cases were admitted to our paediatric ward.
“We are working closely with district and provincial departments of health in monitoring new cases and assisting with interventions aimed at reducing transmission of the virus in the community,” said Life Healthcare group infection control and risk manager Joy Cleghorn.
Asked if there were any school pupils affected and how many, the Department of Education’s Jessica Shelver said they are working with the national Health Department on issues affecting schools.