Parents at local school in Durbanville are on high alert after confirmed cases of meningococcal meningitis were identified among pupils, Cape {town} Etc reports.
This follows the public warning issued by local paediatrician Dr. Willem Smit on Facebook, highlighting how quickly and severely the disease can develop, especially in children.
According to Dr Smit, meningococcal disease can escalate within hours. In some cases, children can become critically ill and deteriorate within 24 hours if treatment is delayed.
Even when they survive, the infection may leave lasting consequences, including hearing loss, brain injury, limb damage, scarring and learning difficulties.
Dr Smit urged families not to adopt a wait-and-see approach: ‘Do not wait. Do not ‘see how it goes.’’ he cautioned, emphasising that early antibiotics and hospital care can save lives.
Parents are being advised to seek urgent medical attention if a child develops:
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Sudden high fever
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Severe headache
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Neck stiffness
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Vomiting
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Sensitivity to light
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Drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking
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A rash that does not fade when pressed
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Cold hands and feet, pale or mottled skin, or severe muscle pain
Dr Smit noted that the disease is preventable and that vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and death.
He highlighted two vaccines are currently available:
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Menactra, which protects against strains A, C, W and Y
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Bexsero, which protects against strain B, described as the most common cause of disease in infants and adolescents in the Western Cape
‘If you live in the Western Cape and you can only afford one then get this one,’ he stated, referring to Bexsero.
He advised that children from 2 months of age receive the Bexsero vaccine, followed by a second dose two months later.
Meanwhile, children aged 9 months and older who have not yet been vaccinated are encouraged to receive both Bexsero and Menactra.
He then added that these vaccines are not currently part of the government’s routine immunisation schedule.
Beyond vaccination, parents have been encouraged to:
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Monitor children closely for symptoms
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Keep unwell children at home
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Follow guidance issued by the school and health authorities
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Check vaccination records and consult their doctor about catch-up doses if necessary
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Ensure caregivers and extended family are aware of warning signs
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Picture: Getty Images
