After consuming snacks purchased from street vendors outside Mshuluzane Mayisela Primary School in Bronkhorstspruit this morning, (October 17), 25 learners fell ill.
Gauteng Education Department spokesperson Steve Mabona said the incident was reported this morning as the learners started showing symptoms of itchiness and stomach pains approximately 30 minutes after eating the snacks.
He said emergency services were quick to respond and transported the 25 affected learners to medical facilities for immediate treatment.
“Eight learners were taken to Kungwini Clinic, while 17 were sent to Zithobeni Clinic. All of them were transported by Gauteng government ambulances.”
Mabona said fortunately, out of the 25 affected by food poisoning, 22 have since been discharged after receiving treatment.
He said two of the learners were taken to private medical facilities by their parents, and one learner remains at Zithobeni Clinic under close medical observation.
“Law enforcement and health authorities are conducting an investigation into the incident to determine the safety of the products being sold by the street vendors and to prevent future occurrences,” added Mabona.
Education MEC Matome Chiloane urged parents, guardians, and schools to always remain vigilant.
“Our priority is the health and safety of our children, and we wish the affected learners a full and speedy recovery,” he said.
LISTEN: GDE spokesperson Steve Mabona explains the incident involving the 25 learners who contracted food poisoning this morning:
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