The Gauteng Department of Health confirmed on Wednesday that 47 learners were treated for food poisoning in Pretoria after they consumed expired chocolate bought from another learner.
Departmental spokesperson Motalatale Modiba said learners, aged between 9-14, from Rapelego Primary School in New Eersterust in Hammanskraal, received medical treatment at Jubilee Hospital, Odi Hospital, Tshwane District Hospital, and Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital due to a suspected food poisoning incident on Monday, 14 October.
“The Grade 5 learners reported to have consumed chocolates purchased from another learner, with an expiry date of June 2024. The learners then presented with gastrointestinal issues and with some experiencing breathing difficulties.”
He said, fortunately, the majority of the learners were discharged between Monday and Tuesday.
“Only four children remain in hospital, with one of them at a private facility as of this afternoon (Tuesday).”
Modiba said the GDoH urges the public to be vigilant about food safety and properly handle perishable and non-perishable food items.
“The public is further advised not to consume expired food even if it might still look edible. The washing of hands before handling food and after using the bathroom is equally important to avoid cross-contamination.”
Here are the signs and symptoms of food poisoning:
Signs that a child might have food poisoning include:
In rare cases, food poisoning can make someone feel dizzy, have blurry vision, or notice tingling in the arms. In very rare cases, the weakness that sometimes goes along with food poisoning will cause trouble breathing.
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