Schools in Philippolis in the southern Free State have been forced to shut their doors after nearly a 100 learners fell ill due to the dual outbreak of influenza B and the rhinovirus, which causes the common cold.

The rapid spread of these contagious diseases among learners has prompted authorities to take swift action to prevent further transmission within educational institutions. Free State Education spokesperson Howard Ndaba told OFM News the schools affected by the virus are Philippolis Primary and Bergmanhoogte Schools in the Xhariep District.

“The Department of Health forced schools to shut doors after close to a 100 pupils were infected with influenza B and the human rhinovirus. The Grades R to Five classes are said to be hardest hit, with six pupils of the 96 having tested positive for these viruses being hospitalised.”

“As soon as we received advice from the Department of Health to suspend classes, we instructed the schools to send pupils home to avoid any further spread, as we were told these viruses are highly contagious,” added Ndaba.

Classes of both schools have been suspended from March 7 to 13 to allow learners to quarantine while receiving attention at home.

Ndaba explained the influenza B virus causes a respiratory illness which infects the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. Stomach symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal discomfort.

Children who are infected with influenza B are likely to experience stomach symptoms, as is the case with those in Philippolis. The virus spreads easily through coughs, sneezes or hands being in contact with the virus.

Ndaba explained the human rhinovirus may also cause a sore throat, ear infection and infection of the sinuses. He dismissed rumours the outbreak was because of food poisoning from school nutrition meals.

“Investigations are underway as the Department of Health professionals could not establish the cause of the outbreak yet,” he said.

In the meantime, the Free State Department of Education urged parents to keep their children home safe and ensure those who are sick receive medical care. The fumigation process will be done before learners go back to school.

Read the original story on OFM News.