Learners fall ill after consuming snacks in Gauteng. Image: SNL24 25
(The Post News)- At Mshuluzane Mayisela Primary School, 25 learners fell ill after consuming snacks purchased from street vendors outside the school premises on Thursday, October 17.
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Matome Chiloane, expressed grave concerns over the food-borne illnesses that broke out at the school in Zithobeni, Bronkhorstspruit.
According to Chiloane, the incident was reported in the morning when learners began showing symptoms of body itching and stomach pains approximately 30 minutes after consuming the alleged snacks.
Chiloane further explained that emergency services responded swiftly to the call and found that 25 learners were transported to medical facilities for treatment. Eight learners were taken to Kungwini Clinic, while 17 were taken to Zithobeni Clinic, all via Gauteng Provincial Government ambulances.
Of the 25 learners, 22 have been discharged from medical facilities after receiving treatment. Two learners were taken to private medical facilities, and one remains at Zithobeni Clinic under medical observation.
Chiloane stressed the importance of consuming safe food and noted that law enforcement and health authorities are conducting an investigation into the incident to determine the safety of products sold by street vendors and prevent future incidents.
Chiloane urged parents, guardians, and schools to be vigilant, prioritizing the health and safety of children. He wishes the affected learners a full and speedy recovery.
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