Central SA
Northern Cape dismisses Hantavirus rumours─── ZENANDE MPAME 11:00 Tue, 19 May 2026
The Northern Cape department of health has reassured residents it is fully prepared for the flu season.
The department also cautioned the public against the spread of misinformation that could create unnecessary panic and confusion. A fabricated social media poster claimed a Hantavirus case had been identified at Sol Plaatje University in Kimberley.
Health authorities have dismissed the claim as fake news and urged residents to verify health-related information through official channels.
Hantavirus symptoms often present initially like influenza, but can deteriorate rapidly. As the country enters the influenza season, the department reiterates the national department of health’s call for anyone with recent contact with a confirmed case to seek urgent medical attention.
“While Hantavirus is a communicable disease, we want to assure the public that not all information circulating on social media is accurate,” said district health services chief director Zama Kiti. “Residents should rely on official health communications for verified information and guidance.
“We work closely with the national department of health and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases, which receives laboratory results first-hand. Should there be any confirmed cases of concern in the province, the public will be informed through official channels.
“We have entered the influenza season and encourage vulnerable groups, including the elderly, people living with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals, to visit their nearest clinic for a flu vaccination, which is readily available across the province.”
Meanwhile, the Central University of Technology has reassured students, staff, and the broader community that the information circulating online about a Hantavirus case is inaccurate.
In a statement issued by the university, CUT clarified the situation and urged the public not to spread unverified information that may cause unnecessary panic.
“No official communication of this nature has been issued by CUT. The university encourages students, staff, and the public to verify information through official CUT communication platforms before sharing,” the institution said.
The national department of health warned against the spread of misinformation as it can create serious public health risks, including delays in seeking proper medical treatment, panic buying or use of unsafe cures, distrust of healthcare workers or vaccines, amongst other challenges.
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