At least 16 children were rushed to different hospitals after getting sick from eating achaar they bought at Emmangweni Primary School in Tembisa, Gauteng.
The Gauteng Department of Education said the incident happened after break at the school.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, said at about 11am, a group of learners between the ages 11 and 15 reported to the office after experiencing dizziness and vomiting from a suspected foodborne illness.
“Upon investigation, it was discovered that they had consumed achaar, which they bought from other learners.
“Two Grade 7 learners from the school reportedly admitted to selling the achaar on behalf of a woman who is a Community Work Programme member,” said Chiloane.
Chiloane said emergency services responded swiftly and transported all 16 affected learners to different medical facilities.
He said parents were immediately informed about the situation and they accompanied their children to the medical facilities.
“We can confirm that 10 learners have since been stabilised and discharged. Only three learners remain at Tembisa Hospital and another three at Esangweni Clinic, where they are receiving necessary medical attention, and their condition is being monitored,” he added.
Chiloane said investigations into this incident are currently under way.
“The safety of all learners remains a top priority as the department works closely with health authorities to address the situation.”
Chiloane said the department was deeply troubled by the increasing number of foodborne illness cases reported in the schools.
“The health and safety of our learners is our highest priority. We are working closely with authorities to fully investigate the cause of this incident,” Chiloane said.
sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za
IOL News