SCHOEMANSKLOOF – There has been no official confirmation regarding the conditions that led to the hospitalisation of more than 60 pupils and some staff members of the Mathews Phosa College this week.
The department of health dispatched a team to investigate conditions at the hostel on Monday after 32 pupils were taken to Rob Ferreira Hospital on Saturday, of which 11 were admitted for severe diarrhoea and dehydration. Mr Ronnie Masilela, spokesman for the department, said another handful was admitted on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday.
The school director, Ms Cathy Struwig confirmed on Thursday morning that tests by the department proved that the outbreak had not been caused by water contamination or food poisoning. She said that samples had been sent to the hospital laboratory for analysis, and the results would be communicated as soon as they become available.
