According to a statement on social media, the infections have affected the upper respiratory tract "presenting as forms of influenza" and was "considered dangerous".
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Hilton College and Durban High School have cancelled a scheduled rugby fixture at the weekend due to a "significant number of boys suffering from various viral infections".
According to a statement on social media, addressed to the parents of both schools, the infections have affected the upper respiratory tract "presenting as forms of influenza" and was "considered dangerous".
"There are several viruses around. Some are causing respiratory symptoms, some gastric symptoms, some both. Together with those symptoms, people are experiencing fatigue, night sweats, chills and severe body pain. There is no crisis - no need to panic. Officially the flu season is in winter, but we are now seeing virus’s throughout the year as people travel globally and bring in viruses."
"After consultation with a number of medical professionals and in the interests of safety and appropriate care and consideration for boys from both schools, we have decided jointly to cancel the fixture this weekend," read the statement.
"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 fixtures."
The schools said the decision had not been taken lightly and they had delayed the decision 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 by this, but we trust that you will recognise our joint responsibility to prioritise safety and wellness above all else."
The statement was signed off by Mr Harris and Mr Pinheiro.
Dr Roshan S Ramkissoon, a general practitioner, said viral infections were common with a new season.
"There are several viruses around. Some are causing respiratory symptoms, some gastric symptoms, some both. Together with those symptoms, people are experiencing fatigue, night sweats, chills and severe body pain. There is no crisis - no need to panic. Officially the flu season is in winter, but we are now seeing virus’s throughout the year as people travel globally and bring in viruses."
He said the flu vaccine should be available in four to six weeks.