Cape Town – At least 47 pupils from Lebohang Primary and Dr Nhlapo Primary schools in Sebokeng reportedly fell ill after consuming snacks believed to have been stolen from a local spaza shop.
The incident occurred on a Monday, resulting in affected learners experiencing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and shortness of breath.
According to Times Live, the Gauteng department of education spokesperson, Steve Mabona, said that 37 students have been discharged, while 10 remain in the hospital for medical care.
“According to our information, the affected learners started cramping after eating snacks allegedly looted from a spaza shop in the area. They experienced vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and shortness of breath,” the report quoted Mabona as saying.
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He added: “Necessary medical tests will be conducted and our psychological support officials will go to both schools. We wish them a speedy recovery.”
The incident follows a recent case in which a pupil from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School in Tshepisong, Roodepoort, died from suspected food poisoning after consuming biscuits purchased from a local spaza shop. Six other were hospitalised.
According to eNCA, Mabona stated that they received news of the learners being transported to a clinic and a local hospital.
“We can confirm that there were about seven learners from one school in Tshepisong who were rushed to a clinic and a local hospital. Five were later transferred to a regional hospital. Unfortunately, one learner has passed away,” he said at the time.
MEDIA STATEMENT @EducationGP1 is saddened to confirm that today, on Friday, 20 October 2023, a Grade 3 boy learner from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School in Tshepisong, Roodepoort passed away at a local clinic due to alleged food poisoning. pic.twitter.com/yWHZFePopc
— Gauteng Department of Education (@EducationGP1) October 20, 2023
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
