Schools urge caution as viral infections spread among pupils

Two schools in Pietermaritzburg and one in Durban have issued warnings to parents following a rise in viral infections among pupils. Hilton College and Durban High School have cancelled a scheduled sports fixture that was set to take place this weekend due to the outbreak. In a joint statement to parents, the schools said a number of boys were suffering from various viral infections affecting the upper and lower respiratory tract, presenting as forms of influenza and considered highly contagious.

“After consultation with a number of medical professionals, and in the interest of safety, appropriate care and consideration for boys from both schools, we have decided to jointly cancel the fixture this weekend,” the statement read. Our directors of sport will explore the possibility of finding a later date in the season to reinstate the fixture, but this will be dependent on a number of factors. The schools added that the decision had not been taken lightly.

“We delayed until this stage in the hope that the health situation would improve, thereby avoiding the need to make this call. “We acknowledge that some may be disappointed, and we trust that you will recognise our joint responsibility to prioritise safety and wellness above all else.” Hilton College has also cancelled a Grade 10 social event that was scheduled to take place with pupils from Wykeham Collegiate on Thursday. Meanwhile, Deccan Road Primary School principal Ganesh Ramlall issued a statement on Wednesday, in line with guidelines from the Department of Education, urging parents to take precautions.