The Gauteng health department has called on the public to stay calm following reports of a disease outbreak in Tshwane. This comes in response to concerns regarding the alleged disease outbreak linked to maggots and staphylococcus infection outbreak in Pretoria North clinics.
NO EVIDENCE OF OUTBREAK FOUND
A spokesperson for the department, Motalatale Modiba said that the department, through its Public Health Directorate and Tshwane District Health Services, has investigated the claims and found no evidence of a widespread outbreak. "Over the past weekend, Odi District Hospital in Tshwane attended to five patients with suspected myiasis, a condition caused by maggot infestation. Three of these were clinically diagnosed with myiasis, while the other two were found to have unrelated abscesses and were transferred to Dr.George Mukhari Academic Hospital for further care,' Modiba said. He added that three patients were seen and discharged on the same day.
PUBLIC URGED TO REFRAIN FROM SPREADING FALSE INFORMATION
According to Modiba, there are also reports of a staphylococcus (staph) infection outbreak in Pretoria North which he said are also false. He said the investigation confirmed that on 7 March 2025, one patient with chronic wounds was seen at Jack Hindon Clinic, where laboratory tests confirmed a staph infection. "The patient was referred to Tshwane District Hospital for further management. There has been no increase in staph infections that would indicate an outbreak,' he added. The department has urged members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic. "The department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents and encourages those experiencing concerning symptoms to seek medical attention at their nearest health facility.'
WHAT IS MYSIS?
Myiasis is not an infectious disease and does not spread from person to person. The condition 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.
Mysis symptoms include:
• Painful, swollen lumps on the skin.
• A small hole in the swollen area, sometimes with visible movements inside.
• Itching or a sensation of something moving under the skin.
• In some cases, a discharge from the wound.
Preventative Measures for Myiasis:
• Avoid drying clothes or bedding directly on the ground.
• Iron clothes before wearing them, especially in high-risk areas.
• Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.
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