The Free State Departments of Education and Health confirmed that 214 pupils from Kagisho Secondary School have been discharged after a suspected food poisoning incident at a matric study camp in Bloemfontein.
The students were admitted to the hospital on Sunday after experiencing severe stomach cramps, diarrhoea, nausea, fever, and vomiting.
Suspected food poisoning: Investigation underway
Authorities are investigating the cause of the illness, which led to the first major foodborne outbreak in 2025. Additionally, this follows a series of food poisoning cases in 2024, where more than 20 children lost their lives after consuming contaminated food from spaza shops.
“These learners, aged between 18 and 20, were discharged and are in good health. The Free State provincial government extends its gratitude to the dedicated professionals who managed this incident with professionalism and compassion,” the department said in a statement.
Furthermore, educators at Kagisho Secondary School played a key role in supporting affected students and ensuring they felt secure and cared for during their hospitalisation.
“Not all students had parents with them at the hospitals,” the department added.
Stricter Regulations for Spaza Shops
In response to last year’s deadly foodborne outbreaks, President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the immediate closure of spaza shops linked to the deaths. He also introduced a re-registration process for all such businesses.
Furthermore, the final deadline for registration was 28 February and unregistered shopsnow face closure.
In addition, following the registration deadline, the government will begin verifying food handlers and their products to prevent further incidents.
As investigations into the Bloemfontein food poisoning case continue, authorities remain focused on improving food safety standards. Should the government introduce even stricter measures to prevent future outbreaks?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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