Gauteng Health sets record straight on Tshwane 'disease outbreak'

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The Gauteng Department of Health says it found no evidence of a widespread disease outbreak linked to maggots and staphylococcus infection in Pretoria North clinics in the City of Tshwane.

The department, through its Public Health Directorate and Tshwane District Health Services conducted an investigation after some members of the public raised concerns on social media, regarding the alleged disease outbreak.

GAUTENG HEALTH PROBES ALLEGED DISEASE OUTBREAK IN TSHWANE

Gauteng Health spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said over the past weekend, Odi District Hospital in Tshwane attended to five patients with suspected myiasis, a condition caused by maggot infestation.

Modiba said 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.

“It is important to note that 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,” he explained.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MYIASIS?

According to the Gauteng Department of Health these are some of the common symptoms:

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, a discharge from the wound.

Here are some 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.
Ensure domestic animals are treated for fly infestations.
Wear shoes to protect feet from exposure.

REPORTS OF STAPHYLOCOCCUS FALSE

Additionally, the Gauteng Department of Health confirmed that reports of a staphylococcus (staph) infection outbreak in Pretoria North is false.

A probe reportedly confirmed that on 7 March 2025, a single patient with chronic wounds, unresponsive to treatment, 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.

“Staphylococcus bacteria are commonly found on human skin and are generally harmless unless they enter the body through a wound or cut. The Gauteng Department of Health urges members of the public to remain calm and 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,” Modiba said.