Dear Potchefstroom Campus student,

On Monday, 14 October 2024, a first-year student from Social Sciences sadly passed away. She lived in private accommodation and the last time she attended classes was on 8 October 2024 after which she went home to Kroonstad. She was admitted to hospital at midnight on 11 October 2024, and was diagnosed with Meningococcal Meningitis. At this stage no new cases were reported.

We contacted her close contacts and her classmates and they received prophylaxis. At this stage, the risk of a meningitis outbreak is very low, but we urge students to please take the vaccination as it helps to prevent the disease. Vaccinations like Menactra is available at the Campus Health Care Centre as well as pharmacies around the country. 

Please remember that meningitis is always a risk in an environment where a lot of people is present and that is why a vaccination is recommended, prevention is better than cure!

If you have symptoms of severe headaches, fever, nausea, vomiting and a stiff neck, now or in future, please consult your local doctor or clinic.

Kind regards

Dr Emile Kotzé
Manager: Campus Health Care Centre