The Limpopo Department of Education has confirmed an investigation into a case of suspected food poisoning at Makahlule Primary School in Malamulele.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, when 35 learners exhibited symptoms consistent with food poisoning, prompting urgent action from health services.
Reports indicate that learners were divided into two groups and swiftly rushed to a nearby clinic after displaying signs of distress.
Initial reports suggest that 22 pupils were taken to a clinic in the morning, suffering from vomiting, and subsequently transferred to Malamulele Hospital for further treatment.
They have since been treated and discharged.
A second wave of 13 pupils followed shortly after, presenting with headaches and stomach cramps, but they too were evaluated and released after appropriate care.
The department has begun collecting samples to assess the situation thoroughly.
Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya has urged parents not to panic as investigations unfold.
“We call on the parents and education community not to panic as the situation is under control and will be investigated thoroughly to ensure that learners are safe at all times,” stated Lerule-Ramakhanya, reassuring the community of ongoing welfare measures.
The incident coincides with the aftermath of a recent tragedy in Naledi, Soweto, where five children lost their lives after consuming what are suspected to be poisoned snacks bought from a local spaza shop.
Major General Fred Kekana, the acting commissioner of police in Gauteng, mentioned efforts are under way to scrutinise food sold by vendors within schools and to examine provisions from feeding schemes.
According to Kekana, the police were able to secure snacks linked to these tragic events, preventing further damage before angry community members looted spaza shops linked to the Soweto tragedy.
The Star
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za