Second-year theology student Chris Scheffers was found dead in his Dagbreek residence room at Stellenbosch University on Saturday, August 2. [ Chris Scheffers/Facebook via The South African]
(The Post News)- Stellenbosch University (SU) has issued a statement confirming that Chris Scheffers died of meningococcal meningitis. His body was found in his room at Dagbreek residence on Saturday, August 2.
In response, Stellenbosch University has activated contact tracing protocols to identify individuals who had close contact with Scheffers in the past 10 days, as this particular strain of meningitis spreads in close-contact environments. Although no further confirmed cases have been reported, the university said it will continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly as the spread of meningitis is more common during winter in the Western Cape.
According to Stellenbosch University’s Campus Health, early signs of meningococcal meningitis can easily be mistaken for the flu because its symptoms are similar, with the individual likely to experience headaches, sore muscles, joint pain, and sensitivity to light. However, the condition can worsen rapidly, leading to high fever, a stiff neck, vomiting, seizures, and in some cases, a distinctive red or purple rash that doesn’t fade when pressed.
While the illness is serious, a preventative medication known as chemoprophylaxis can be issued. The medication is expected to be administered staff and students who have been in close contact with Scheffers within the next 24 hours to staff and students to reduce the risk of further infection.
The university added in its statement: “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 an additional precaution, Stellenbosch University has suspended all social gatherings and meetings at Dagbreek residence until the weekend, but support services have been made available to those who knew Scheffers.
Those close to Scheffers describe him as a “light”.
Authorities from both Stellenbosch University and the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness continue to work closely to manage the situation, prevent further spread, and ensure that this does not happen to another young student. Chris Scheffers was just 19 at the time of his passing.
Please share your thoughts contact Lukhona via email: journalist-lukhona@thepostnews.net
About the Author
