The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has confirmed that investigations into an alleged disease outbreak linked to maggots and a staphylococcus infection in Pretoria North clinics have found no evidence of a widespread crisis.
Following reports over the weekend, authorities from the Public Health Directorate and Tshwane District Health Services investigated claims of patients suffering from myiasis, a condition caused by a maggot infestation. It is explained that the Odi District Hospital attended to five patients who were suspected to be affected, resulting in three confirmed clinical diagnoses of myiasis.
“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. 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,” the department revealed.
The department details that it is crucial to understand that myiasis is not contagious; it cannot be transmitted from person to person. The condition arises when flies lay eggs on damp clothing, bedding, or unsanitary surfaces, leading to the hatching of maggots that then burrow into the skin. Symptoms may include:
- Painful, swollen lumps on the skin
- A small hole in the swollen area, often with visible movement inside
- Itching or a sensation of something moving beneath the skin
- Possible discharge from the wound
To guard against myiasis, the GDoH recommends the following preventative measures:
- Avoid drying clothes or bedding directly on the ground
- Iron clothes before wearing them, especially in high-risk areas
- Maintain proper hygiene and sanitation practices
- Ensure domestic animals receive treatment for fly infestations
- Wear shoes to protect feet from exposure
In a separate concern, the department has also addressed claims of a staphylococcus infection outbreak in Pretoria North, deeming them unfounded. An investigation revealed that on March 7, 2025, a lone patient with chronic wounds, resistant to treatment, was seen at the Jack Hindon Clinic, where laboratory tests confirmed a staph infection. It is detailed that the patient was referred to Tshwane District Hospital for additional management but has not resulted in an increase in reported cases that would suggest an outbreak.
Saturday Star