Multiple learners hospitalised after eating contaminated snacks
At least 37 learners from Ekwazini Secondary School fell ill after they apparently bought snacks from a vendor on school premises, with several in serious condition as investigations into possible contamination continue.
Several Ekwazini Secondary School learners have been rushed to the hospital after consuming snacks suspected to be contaminated.
The group of learners reportedly fell ill shortly after eating the snacks, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and dizziness.
Emergency services responded promptly, with ambulances transporting the affected children to the hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
According to a message shared on a Newtown community WhatsApp group, at least 37 learners have fallen ill, with six reported to be ‘in critical condition’.
When contacted for comment, a staff member at the school confirmed that several learners had indeed fallen ill and had been taken to the hospital. The staff member also confirmed that the affected learners had bought the snacks from a lady selling on the school premises. She did not provide her name.
Residents in the area reported seeing multiple ambulances arriving and leaving the school as emergency responders continue to assist affected learners.
@middelburgobserver WATCH | Ambulances rushed to Ekwazini Secondary School where at least 37 learners fell ill after buying snacks from a vendor at the school. Some are reportedly in serious condition. #middelburgobserver
Investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
• The Middelburg Observer asked Jasper Zwane, media spokesperson of the Mpumalanga Department of Education, about the incident, but he said the department was unaware of the situation.
• Christopher Nobela, spokesperson for the provincial health department, also had no idea about the incident and said he would find out how many children were admitted to the King Nyabela Hospital.
