THE Gauteng Department of Health has denied claims of a disease outbreak in Pretoria North linked to maggots and staphylococcus infection.
It said it has noted concerns raised in public, in particular on social media, regarding an alleged disease outbreak linked to maggots and staphylococcus infection in Pretoria North clinics.
The department, through its Public Health Directorate and Tshwane District Health Services, has investigated these 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.
The three patients were seen and discharged on the same day.
The investigation further confirmed that on March 7, 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.
The department assured that there has been no increase in staph infections indicating 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 health department urged the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic.
It is important to note that myiasis is not an infectious disease and does not spread from person to person, the department said. It explained that 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. Common symptoms of myiasis include painful, swollen lumps on the skin with a small hole in the swollen area, sometimes with visible movement inside.
Itching or a sensation of something moving under the skin can also be a symptom, while in some cases, a discharge will be detected from the wound.
Preventative measures for myiasis include that people must avoid drying clothes or bedding directly on the ground and it is recommended to iron clothes before wearing them, especially in high-risk areas.
People are also advised to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation and to ensure that domestic animals are treated for fly infestations.
The department said it 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.
