203 pupils suffer from ‘food poisoning’ at Pretoria school

The Gauteng education department has launched an investigation after 203 pupils from MH Baloyi Secondary School complained of food poisoning.

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi visited the school in Winterveld following the allegations of food poisoning on Thursday.

According to the department, pupils allegedly consumed food during break time on Tuesday and the school day ended without any pupil complaining about a stomach bug.

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On Wednesday, several pupils from one class complained about having a stomach bug and some said they were not able to sleep the previous night.

“About 203 pupils who consumed that food had all experienced stomach pains and they were rushed to several health facilities to receive medical attention. Fortunately, all the pupils were discharged in the evening,” said the department.

During his visit, Lesufi engaged with the school management and district officials regarding circumstances surrounding this incident.

He also interacted with pupils and apologised to them for what occurred.

“What happened yesterday is just unfortunate. I met with the students and they explained what happened. I also met with the people who were cooking. The leadership of the school, the district and I have taken samples to laboratories and as such I am waiting for the outcome of these samples,” said Lesufi.

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“Until then, we advised that the suspicious food must not be served. Only fruits, porridge and other ready-made food must be served until we get the results which will assist us with a way forward.”

Compiled by Vhahangwele Nemakonde 

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