Stellenbosch University (SU) has confirmed that Chris Sheffers, the student who passed away on 2 August, died of meningococcal meningitis.
This is according to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson.
Scheffers was a second-year theology student who resided in Dagbreek men’s residence, according to Viljoen.
This strain of meningitis is considered serious and can spread in close-contact environments, said Viljoen in correspondence with SMF News. Rapid deterioration in a healthy young person is not uncommon, said Viljoen. He said that general secondary cases of meningitis are typically rare.
Chris Scheffers was a second-year theology student who passed away on 2 August. This is according to Martin Viljoen, Stellenbosch University spokesperson. “The university confirms that it has been informed that the Matie student who passed away over the weekend, Mr Chris Scheffers, died of meningococcal meningitis.” PHOTO: Supplied/Facebook
“Meningitis is endemic to the Western Cape, where it circulates more commonly during the winter months,” said Viljoen. “Most cases occur without a clearly identifiable source of contact.”
“Meningitis is a very common illness in places like schools and universities; environments where many people gather.” This is according to Dr Buddy Johnson, general and emergency room medical practitioner at Netcare Kuils River Hospital. INFOGRAPHIC: Nadia Swart
“Detailed contact tracing of people who were in close contact with Mr Scheffers over the past ten days is underway so that chemoprophylaxis (a preventative medication) can be issued within the next 24 hours to reduce risk of infection,” said Viljoen.
No further cases have been confirmed, according to Viljoen.
“The university will continue to monitor the situation and contacts very closely over the next few days,” he said.
“In accordance with protocol, identified close contacts are encouraged to only attend lectures if asymptomatic, and wear masks in lectures and avoid gatherings (for example singing in groups), and not take part in contact sport,” said Martin Viljoen, Stellenbosch University spokesperson, in correspondence with SMF News. INFOGRAPHIC: Nadia Swart