Stellenbosch University (SU) has confirmed that their second-year student who passed away at the weekend had contracted meningococcal meningitis, with health protocols now in place at the campus.

In a statement shared with the Cape Argus on Tuesday, SU said tracing protocols were under way.

Theology student, Chris Scheffers body was found on August 2 inside his bedroom at the Dagbreek residency.

The university earlier confirmed that no foul play was suspected and that the cause of death was to be determined.

On August 4, laboratory results confirmed meningococcal meningitis.

“The health, safety, and well-being of all staff and students remain a priority for Stellenbosch University. To this background, the university confirms that it has been informed that the Matie student who passed away over the weekend, Mr Chris Scheffers, died of meningococcal meningitis,” SU said.

“Meningitis is endemic to the Western Cape, where it circulates more commonly during the winter months. Most cases occur without a clearly identifiable source of contact.

“As this strain of meningitis can spread in close-contact environments and is considered serious, the protocols of the university’s Campus Health Services have been activated – guided by provincial and national health policies – with the university working in close partnership with the Western Cape Government: Health and Wellness to ensure all relevant protocols and preventative measures are adhered to. 

“Detailed contact tracing of people who were in close contact with Mr Scheffers over the past ten days is under way so that chemoprophylaxis (a preventative medication) can be issued within the next 24 hours to reduce risk of infection. In this regard, Campus Health Services will directly engage with and medically advise those identified as close contacts over the next 24 hours. These include both students and staff.

“Although no further confirmed cases have been reported, the university will continue to monitor the situation and contacts very closely over the next few days. If there are any concerning symptoms experienced by close contacts after receiving their chemoprophylaxis, they are advised to seek medical assessment urgently.”

SU added that in accordance with protocol, identified close contacts are encouraged to only attend lectures if asymptomatic, and wear masks in lectures and avoid gatherings (for example singing in groups) and not take part in contact sport. 

“As a precautionary measure all general meetings and gatherings in the Dagbreek residence (where Mr Scheffers resided) have been postponed until the weekend,” they said.

“According to Campus Health, the bacterial infection initially presents itself with flu-like symptoms – headaches, muscle pains, joint pains and photophobia (eye sensitivity to light) – which then become steadily worse: high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, diarrhoea or stomach pains, painful joints, cold hands and feet, seizures; and/or drowsiness that can deteriorate into a coma. Red or purple rash may also be present which does not disappear when pressed.

“Rapid deterioration in a healthy young person is sadly not uncommon; however, it is important to emphasise that in general secondary cases (amongst contacts) are usually rare.

Sandra Maritz, Communication Officer, Western Cape Government Health and Wellness said in their response to the illness: “The Western Cape Government Health and Wellness is aware of the passing of a student due to meningococcal disease, and in support of the university’s response, provided prophylactic medication for people who were in close contact with the student.”The Department is providing further support through contact tracing in the communities where the student was involved.”

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