34 Vhembe learners treated for food poisoning

LIMPOPO – Schools and communities in the Vhembe District have been urged to remain vigilant about food safety after 34 learners from two schools fell ill last Monday due to suspected food poisoning.

Three learners from Denga High School, located in the Nthabalala area, were treated and discharged from Elim Hospital the same day.

Meanwhile, 31 learners from Mukhwantheli High School, who were on a school trip to the Schoemansdal Museum, received treatment at Louis Trichardt Memorial Hospital and were also discharged on the same day.

According to reports, the three learners from Denga High School purchased snacks from a nearby spaza shop before falling ill.

One learner, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his experience: “Our stomachs hurt so badly it became unbearable. When we went to class, everyone was complaining about stomach pains and diarrhoea.

“Eventually, ambulances were called, and we were taken to the hospital.”

A concerned parent expressed frustration with spaza shop owners, saying they had confronted vendors to discourage them from selling unsafe food to children.

“We don’t want to face the same tragedies that have occurred in other provinces,” he said.

The MEC for Education, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya, reassured parents and school communities that the situation was under control and that a thorough investigation was underway to ensure learners’ safety.

She urged parents, school governing bodies, and community members to remain vigilant about food safety.

“Any suspicious food items, especially expired snacks, must be reported to local authorities for immediate action,” Lerule-Ramakhanya advised.

Louis Trichardt Mayor Dorcus Mboyi visited affected learners at Elim Hospital and stressed the importance of food safety.

“We urge all tuckshop owners and street vendors to ensure their products meet health standards. Learners must also check expiry dates and the quality of food before buying,” said Mboyi.