News24 | KZN education dept investigating suspected food poisoning after 43 pupils fall ill

43 pupils from Ngaqa Primary School in Mtubatuba, KwaZulu-Natal, were rushed to a local clinic after falling ill from allegedly poisoned snacks. (NickyLloyd/Getty Images)

The KwaZulu-Natal education department is investigating whether food poisoning is to blame after 43 pupils fell ill at Ngaqa Primary School in Mtubatuba.

The department's spokesperson, Muzi Mahlabi, said the pupils exhibited symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea and were rushed to a nearby clinic.

"We can confirm the incident of food poisoning happened yesterday [Monday] at the school, where learners bought snacks from vendors," he said.

"They were rushed to a local clinic, but they were all released after being medically checked."

READ | 80 health inspectors to search for 'chemical agent' believed to be behind food poisoning in Gauteng

He said the department took samples to be tested and once the report was available, the police would decide on the way forward.

Several similar incidents were reported in Gauteng and Limpopo.

Last week, 25 pupils from Mshuluzane Mayisela Primary School in Bronkhorstspruit were hospitalised, allegedly due to food poisoning. 

Also, 47 Rapelego Primary School pupils in Hammanskraal were hospitalised due to suspected food poisoning. The children were believed to have eaten chocolates that had passed their expiry date.

On 10 October, more than 70 Gauteng Grade 12 pupils from Fochville Secondary School, Badirile Secondary School and Wedela Technical School were rushed to Carletonville Hospital following a suspected food poisoning incident at a matric camp.

In Limpopo, 35 pupils from Makahlule Primary School fell ill after buying snacks from vendors.

Earlier in the month, six children from Naledi, Soweto, died after allegedly consuming snacks bought at a local tuckshop.