16 Tembisa Learners Rushed To Hospital After Consuming Atchaar

Sixteen learners from the Emmangweni Primary School in Tembisa, east of Johannesburg, have been rushed to hospital after contracting what is believed to be a food-borne illness .

Preliminary reports indicate that after the school break at 11am, a group of learners aged between 11 and 15 reported to the school office, after experiencing dizziness and vomiting.

Upon investigation, it was discovered that they had consumed atchaar, which they bought from other learners. Three of the 16 learners remain in hospital where they are still receiving medical care.

"Two Grade 7 learners from the school reportedly admitted to selling the atchaar on behalf of a woman who is a Community Work Programme CWP member. Emergency services responded swiftly and transported all 16 affected learners to different medical facilities. Parents were promptly informed about the situation and accompanied their children to the respective medical facilities," says spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education, Steve Mabona.

Meanwhile earlier this week, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi said they are working around the clock to identify the chemical agent that is suspected to be the cause of harm and death to school children who have consumed snacks from foreign-owned spaza shops.