Pupils at the Willow Crescent Secondary School in Eldorado Park were given preventative meningitis medication after a teenager died on Thursday, the Gauteng health department said.
”The 15-year-old girl who attended Willow Crescent Secondary died from suspected bacterial meningitis in the early hours of this morning,” said spokesperson Phumelele Kaunda.
”It was not possible to conclusively confirm that she had meningitis as her remains had to be buried before sunset in line with the family’s religious beliefs.”
As a precaution, about 50 pupils from the school who had close contact with the girl were given preventative medication, and were also spoken to about the illness.
”Family members also received prophylactic treatment and support and are being closely monitored.”
Joint operational teams have also been established to maintain control over the situation and to dispel fears of an outbreak in the area.
The signs for meningitis are severe headache, fever, vomiting, irritability, reduced consciousness and rashes on the body.
It is spread through drops of fluid from the mouth, throat or nose of someone who has the illness.
”Those who experience these symptoms or have been in contact with people with meningitis should immediately seek medical attention.”
To prevent meningitis one must avoid contact with any person with suspicion of the illness, and must also wash their hands after touching the affected person, she said. — Sapa