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Beitbridge Bureau
There was panic in Beitbridge yesterday when 24 Grade 1 pupils at St Joseph’s Primary School were rushed to hospital after they ate jatropha seeds and fell ill. Authorities said all affected children, aged between six and seven-years-old, were in stable condition at Beitbridge District Hospital. It is understood that one of the pupils lured his classmate into eating the pods, which he claimed were a delicacy at his rural home.
“The issue came to light when all the 24 pupils started vomiting while others had continuous running stomachs,” said a teacher.
“We advised their parents about the incident immediately before rushing them to the hospital.”
Matabeleland South medical director Dr William Busumani said, “We have rehydrated them and the situation is under control. We are giving them a lot of fluids.
“Generally, the seeds induce diarrhoea and vomiting if inhaled by human beings. In most cases people die of dehydration, but in this case all the patients are out of danger.”
Provincial education director Ms Thumisang Thabela said the matter was still under investigation. When The Herald visited the hospital last night, concerned parents were enquiring about their children.
“I only got to know about the incident when I had gone to collect my child from the school during lunch time,” said Mr Kenneth Mucheka.
“I was told he had been taken to hospital after eating a harmful plant. He is in a stable condition and I hope the situation will improve.”
Online Reporter