THE Ministry of Health has confirmed an outbreak of meningitis at Mwense Secondary School in Luapula province, which has already claimed the lives of two grade nine pupils.
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In simple terms meningitis is a serious infection that causes the inflammation of the protective layers around the brain, and spinal cord.
The victims in this case, both aged 19 suddenly passed away within the span of one month, having initially complained of symptoms such as fever, headaches, abdominal pains and dizziness.
Both learners were admitted to the local health authorities which include Mwense Urban Health Centers and Mwense District Hospital, but tragically succumbed to the illness shortly after seeking treatment.
Speaking when he addressed journalists in Lusaka this morning, Health Minister Elijah Muchima confirmed that in the past 24 hours, Mwense Secondary School had reported an additional two suspected cases of meningitis, bringing the total number of suspected cases to 83.
Muchima revealed that of these cases, five had been confirmed, with 16 individuals already discharged and two students having lost their lives.
He disclosed that currently, 17 patients remain admitted for further treatment, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by the disease.
Muchima assured the public that all affected students are currently receiving medical care and treatment at the designated health facilities, Mwense District Hospital and Mansa General Hospital.
The minister further stated that government had taken swift action to assess the extent of the outbreak and mitigate further spread of the illness.
“After thorough investigation, the outbreak was categorised as a high-risk situation,” he said.
Muchima also confirmed that common symptoms associated with meningitis had been identified during the assessment process, which included fever, neck stiffness, altered mental status, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
“These symptoms, when observed in conjunction with one another, can serve as red flags for potential meningitis infection, underscoring the importance of prompt medical attention for affected individuals,” he said.
He disclosed that government has rapidly deployed health teams to respond to the outbreak and work towards its containment.
This quick action includes isolating affected boarding pupils at the school to prevent further transmission among the student body.
However, in terms of vaccination, Muchima confirmed that the government will not administer vaccines at this stage of the outbreak.
He further announced the implementation of mass screening at Mwense Secondary School, where the outbreak originated, aimed to identify and isolate affected boarding pupils, containing the spread of the disease within the school and preventing further transmission into the broader community.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba July 10, 2025
