Health MEC assures there is no meningitis crisis

By Mikhaila Crowie
19 March 2009

The rapid spread of meningitis has caused a widespread of concern for many in the Western Province.

It’s been confirmed that 12 people have been treated in the province for meningococcal meningitis and two people have died thus far.

MEC for Health in the Western Cape, Marius Fransman, briefed the media yesterday on the widespread of meningitis in the province and said there was no need to panic.

“This particular one (meningococcal meningitis) is quite infectious, very acute, and people can die. However again its speaks to the way we ensure treatment and they say it is especially where there are a lot of people that’s coming together.”

Fransman went on to explain that it occurs where a lot of people stay together for example informal settlements and school hostels.

Professor Craig Housem of the Provincial Department of Health, described the meningococcal as an acute infection which is dangerous and has rapid progression.

Housem added that this is the reason it requires treatment with antibiotics.

“The good news is that if you are diagnosed and effectively treated, you also get better very quickly and in general without any complications.”

Housem said the problem arises when there is a delay in instituting in medical treatment.

He went on to explain that it is vital that both the communities and health workers are aware of the symptoms.