A grade 10 pupil from Bishops Diocesan College died on Sunday of viral meningitis.
In a letter to parents of 740 boys at the school, headmaster Vernon Wood said: “It is with a very sad heart that I must inform you that (name withheld) passed away this morning as a result of viral meningitis. I am sure you join me in conveying the heartfelt condolences of the entire Bishops community to his parents and his brother.”
He said other pupils from Kidd House, where the boy was a boarder, were informed of his death at a rehearsal on Sunday. The school’s deputy headmaster, Paul Westwood, and Kidd House master Graeme Klerck were monitoring the situation at the house.
“The school doctor has informed us that viral meningitis is not contagious and that we should therefore not be concerned about it being transmitted amongst the boys.”
Wood said the school would continue with its planned eisteddfod programme.
“The Kidd House one-act play is due to be performed tonight. I will make a suitable announcement prior to the start of the evening.”
He said the school would assemble in the chapel on Tuesday morning where a service would be held.
“We will bear the family up in our prayers and thoughts at this difficult time.”
According to the school’s website, last year the boy was honoured for his talent as a percussionist.
He was also a member of the school’s Orchestra Society.
Viral meningitis is usually mild and often clears within two weeks. Common symptoms are viral infections are rashes, a sore throat, joint aches and severe headaches.
Meningitis is potentially life-threatening due to the inflammation’s proximity to the brain and spinal cord.
The Cape Times has withheld the name of the child as it was unable to make contact with the family.
Attempts to contact the school principal on Sunday night failed.
- Cape Times/IOL
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