TB scare at Pretoria school: 2 staff members test positive, 1 dies

A tuberculosis (TB) scare has struck the Pretoria School for Learners with Cerebral Palsy after two staff members tested positive, with one tragically passing away.

While no students have tested positive, health officials have conducted screenings, and the school continues to monitor staff and learners for symptoms.

Khutso Rabothata, the acting head of communications at the Gauteng Department of Health, confirmed that the learners tested negative. However, an occupational therapist who worked closely with them and a general assistant both tested positive. The occupational therapist is currently on sick leave for isolation, while the general assistant has sadly passed away.

“The Skinner Clinic TB team conducted an investigation on September 2 and 5, testing close contacts. Ongoing observation of staff and learners will continue,” Rabothata said.

Tuberculosis

The World Health Organisation (WHO) explains that tuberculosis is an infectious disease affecting the lungs, spread through the air when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or spit. While preventable and curable, TB can become fatal if untreated. It is estimated that a quarter of the global population carries TB bacteria, but only 5–10% will develop symptoms and the disease itself.

People with latent TB infection aren’t contagious, but those who develop TB disease can spread it. Symptoms include prolonged cough (sometimes with blood), chest pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, and night sweats. TB primarily affects the lungs but can also impact the kidneys, brain, spine, and skin.

To prevent TB infection and spread, individuals should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms such as a prolonged cough, fever, or unexplained weight loss. Those at higher risk, such as people with HIV or those in close contact with infected individuals, should get tested. TB treatment must be completed fully to stop the spread. Good hygiene, including wearing masks and covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, can also help reduce transmission.

“Special measures like respirators and ventilation are important in healthcare and other institutions,” the WHO advises.