No evidence of disease outbreak in Tshwane, says Gauteng Health

The Gauteng Department of Health has dispelled fears of a widespread disease outbreak in Pretoria North clinics, stating that investigations found no basis for the concerns circulating on social media.

Concerns about a possible health crisis emerged after members of the public took to social media to report alleged cases of maggot infestations and a staphylococcus infection outbreak. In response, the department, through its Public Health Directorate and Tshwane District Health Services, launched an investigation.

MAGGOT INFESTATION CASES ADDRESSED IN TSHWANE

Gauteng Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba clarified that over the past weekend, five patients were treated at Odi District Hospital in Tshwane for suspected myiasis, a condition caused by maggot infestation.

“Three of the patients 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. The three patients were seen and discharged on the same day,” he said.

Modiba emphasized that myiasis is not a contagious 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.”

SYMPTOMS AND PREVENTION OF MYIASIS

The Gauteng Department of Health outlined symptoms of myiasis, which include:

• Painful, swollen lumps on the skin.
• A small hole in the swollen area, sometimes with visible movement inside.
• Itching or a sensation of something moving under the skin.
• In some cases, discharge from the wound.

To prevent myiasis, residents are advised to:

• Avoid drying clothes or bedding directly on the ground.
• Iron clothes before wearing them, especially in high-risk areas.
• Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation.
• Ensure domestic animals are treated for fly infestations.
• Wear shoes to protect feet from exposure.

STAPHYLOCOCCUS CLAIMS DISMISSED

In addition to addressing concerns about maggot infestations, the department refuted claims of a staphylococcus (staph) infection outbreak in Pretoria North.

A probe found that a single patient with chronic wounds, unresponsive to treatment, was seen at Jack Hindon Clinic on 7 March 2025. Laboratory tests confirmed a staph infection, but Modiba stated that this does not indicate an outbreak.

“There has been no increase in staph infections that would indicate an outbreak. Staphylococcus bacteria are commonly found on human skin and are generally harmless unless they enter the body through a wound or cut,” he explained.

Modiba urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic. “The Gauteng Department of Health 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.”

Despite the reassurances, the department continues to monitor health trends in the region to ensure early detection and response to potential health threats.