Cape Town – Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi has confirmed that the suspected food poisoning incidents leading to the deaths of children in Soweto were caused by organophosphate exposure.
During a press briefing on Monday, Motsoaledi said that the cause of death in the Gauteng cases has been conclusively identified as organophosphate exposure, dismissing earlier assumptions of food poisoning.
Several incidents have occurred nationwide, with affected children exhibiting symptoms like dizziness and vomiting, necessitating hospitalisation.
[BREAKING NEWS] The Health Minister announces cause of Soweto children’s deaths due to Organophosphate. More details on #eNCA #DStv403 #QuestionThinkAct pic.twitter.com/QyzpNHhJ5W
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 28, 2024
“The findings of the toxicology report showed that the cause of deaths is unequivocally organophosphate,” said Motsoaledi.
“This is not food poisoning, as food poisoning refers to a very specific medical condition.”
He added: “When we mentioned that we were pursuing a chemical cause, we understood that we were dealing with an organophosphate issue.”
[LIVE NOW🔴] Food poisoning and the safety of children continue to be a concern in South Africa. There have been several incidents around the country, where children have been rushed to hospital, feeling dizzy and some vomiting. Investigations into the causes have been underway.… pic.twitter.com/CqcTcIKcyP
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 28, 2024
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Compiled by Thandile Xesi
