The Gauteng Department of Health has dismissed claims of a disease outbreak linked to maggot infestations and staphylococcus infections in Pretoria North clinics. The department said its investigation found no evidence of a widespread health crisis.
No evidence of a disease widespread outbreak
Gauteng Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba clarified that over the past weekend, Odi District Hospital treated five patients with suspected myiasis, a condition caused by maggot infestation.
“Three of these were clinically diagnosed with myiasis, while the other two had unrelated abscesses and were transferred to Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital for further care,” Modiba said.
“The three patients were seen and discharged on the same day.”
Modiba emphasised that myiasis is not an infectious disease but occurs when flies lay eggs on damp clothing, bedding, or unsanitary surfaces.
“Once hatched, the maggots dig into the skin, causing swelling, irritation, and a boil-like lesion with a small hole through which the maggot breathes,” he explained.
Staphylococcus Cases Do Not Indicate an Outbreak
The department also addressed concerns about staphylococcus (staph) infections, stating that no increase in cases would suggest a disease outbreak. The investigation found that on 7 March, a patient with chronic wounds visited Jack Hindon Clinic, where lab tests confirmed a staph infection.
“This patient had wounds that were unresponsive to treatment and was referred to Tshwane District Hospital for further management,” Modiba said.
He added that staphylococcus bacteria are commonly found on human skin and typically do not cause harm unless they enter the body through a wound or cut.
Health Authorities Urge the Public to Remain Calm
The Gauteng Department of Health assured the public that it continues to monitor the situation and that there is no cause for alarm. Officials urged residents to maintain good hygiene and seek medical attention if they notice unusual skin infections or wounds that do not heal.
With health authorities refuting claims of a crisis, do you think misinformation about disease outbreaks can cause unnecessary panic in communities?
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