Rise in food poisoning cases sparks concern in SA

South Africa is grappling with a disturbing rise in food poisoning cases, with the latest incident occurring on Thursday morning. At Mshuluzane Mayisela Primary School in Zithobeni, near Bronkhorstspruit, 25 pupils were hospitalised after consuming snacks bought from street vendors outside the school. According to the Gauteng Department of Education, the children showed symptoms of body itching and stomach pains.

Steve Mabona, the department’s spokesperson, said emergency services were quick to respond.

“A total of 25 learners were transported to medical facilities for treatment. Eight learners were taken to Kungwini Clinic and 17 to Zithobeni Clinic, all by Gauteng provincial government ambulances,” he reported.

Although 22 children have since been discharged, two were taken to private clinics by their parents, and one remains under observation.

Growing food poisoning cases in Gauteng and beyond

This incident is part of a more significant trend as food poisoning cases continue to rise across the country. On Wednesday, Mpumalanga officials confirmed that 21 pupils were hospitalised due to food poisoning, adding to the growing number of reported cases in Gauteng, Eastern Cape, and Limpopo. Also, the National Consumer Commission has launched compliance checks to ensure the safety of products being sold by street vendors near schools.

Furthermore, authorities are investigating the source of the unsafe food, with concerns mounting over the quality of snacks sold to children. The Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, called for greater vigilance.

“We urge parents, guardians, and schools to be cautious of what children consume. Our priority is the health and safety of our children, and we wish the affected learners a speedy recovery,” Chiloane said.

Tragic outcome in Soweto

The concern over food safety intensified after the tragic deaths of six children in Naledi, Soweto, who reportedly ate poisoned snacks. One of the victims, 7-year-old Katlego Olifant, died after spending a week in intensive care. The mass funeral held for the six children at Naledi Community Hall left the community in deep mourning and sent shockwaves through local schools.

Furthermore, with the rise in food poisoning cases, authorities are under pressure to implement stricter controls on vendors and ensure the safety of children’s snacks.

How can stronger regulations help prevent these tragic food poisoning incidents from recurring?

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