40 Pupils Hospitalised After Suspected Snack Poisoning At Mpumalanga School

Around 40 pupils from Ekwazini Secondary School were rushed to hospital after suddenly falling ill following the consumption of suspected contaminated snacks.

The incident unfolded on Monday when learners began showing symptoms associated with food poisoning after eating a product believed to be called Krunchy Nax.

Cases Escalate Rapidly as More Pupils Show Symptoms

The Mpumalanga Department of Education said the situation escalated quickly.

Initially, three learners complained of stomach cramps, prompting the school to call for urgent medical assistance.

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“The number rose to 40 as more pupils showed similar symptoms and were immediately rushed to hospital for treatment,” the department said.

Authorities confirmed that all affected pupils were in a stable, non-critical condition and have since been discharged.

Health Officials Probe Cause as Safety Warning Issued

Health inspectors have been deployed to determine the source of the illness.

“Food samples, including the suspected snacks and water sources, have been collected for laboratory testing,” officials said.

The department has urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant, warning about the risks associated with food purchased from informal or unverified vendors.

“Prevention begins at home. Parents must educate their children about food safety and the risks linked to unregulated products.”