Department of Health spokesperson Yonela Dekeda, has confirmed that 85 learners from Mpeko Primary School in Mthatha were rushed to Mpeko clinic following them complaining of severe headaches, dizziness, respiratory distress, and general body weakness.
Dekeda said according to reports received by health officials this was due to the consumption of ginger beer.
“This was in a powder form but when prepared, it is mixed with water. All of them were assessed and referred to the Mthatha General Hospital (MGH) and Nelson Mandela Academic Central Hospital (NMACH) after given stat doses of appropriate medication,” said Dekeda.
ICYMI | Ginger powder consumptions lands 55 local learners in hospital
Dekeda added that from the 85 learners, 51 were taken to MGH, with 50 being treated and discharged in stable condition.
“Thirty four learners were taken to Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital and were observed over night and all discharged yesterday morning. Both hospitals took samples for analysis to determine if there was any food poisoning and according to the doctors who attended to the learners there were no signs of food poisoning.”
Dekeda added that yesterday another 28 learners were also admitted to Mpeko clinic presenting with the same symptoms and have all been transferred to NMAH, “They were still being assessed and stabilised.”
On Tuesday, August 2, Department of Education spokesperson, Mali Mtima confirmed that 55 learners from Mpeko Primary School in Mthatha were rushed to a local clinic following the consumption of a ginger powder that was sold to them by a fellow learner.
According to Mtima, the learners were then transferred to Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital, with 52 of the 55 being discharged on the day and the remaining three admitted overnight for observation were admitted just for overnight observation.
“Amongst the three learners who were admitted overnight, the learner who showed the most severe reaction to the powder was said to have consumed it on an empty stomach,” said Mtima.
He added that according to reports from the school, the learner who sold the powder also consumed it with no adverse reaction to it.
“It is time for schools to take measures that will see to the inspection of food stuff sold to learners, which is a responsibility that lies with the School Governing Body (SGB),” said Mtima.
