Stellenbosch University has confirmed that the Matie student who passed away over the weekend, Chris Scheffers, died of meningococcal meningitis.

The University says its Campus Health Services have been activated, and contact tracing of people who were in close contact with Scheffers over the past ten days is now underway.

This is to ensure that chemoprophylaxis (a preventative medication) can be issued within the next 24 hours to reduce the risk of infection. These include both students and staff.

“The University is also working in close partnership with the Western Cape Government: Health and Wellness to ensure all relevant protocols and preventative measures are adhered to.”

Although no further confirmed cases have been reported, the University says it 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. 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 Scheffers resided) have been postponed until the weekend.

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

Symptoms of meningococcal meningitis:

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.”

Contact information for staff and students:

• Campus Health Services at 021 808 3493/6 (office hours) and ER24 010 205 3032 after hours.
• Stellenbosch Hospital 24/7: 021 808 6100.
• Stellenbosch Medi-Clinic: 021 861 2094 (emergencies).
• Students in need of counselling are encouraged to contact the University’s 24-hour Crisis Service on 010 205 3032 after hours and during office hours: 021 808 4994 (Stellenbosch Campus) and 021 927 7020 (Tygerberg Campus).
• Students can also email supportus@sun.ac.za to arrange individual counselling.

Meanwhile, tributes have been pouring in for Scheffers.

The acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Learning and Teaching, Prof Richard Stevens, said the passing of a cherished young life leaves a deep and lasting ache within the university community.

“With heavy hearts, we mourn alongside the family and friends. I want to assure the family that they have the support of the SU community. Our thoughts are also with the student’s friends, including those in Dagbreek, and his classmates.”

Prof Stevens was in contact with the family to express the University’s condolences.

Grant Leukes, residence head of Dagbreek, described Scheffers as an energetic young man who played a big part in Dagbreek’s sêr (serenade) group for the past two years.

“He was involved in res and loved the community he stayed in. We will all miss him dearly and we send our heartfelt condolences to his family.”

The Dagbreek community will make information available on how his life is to be celebrated in the residence.