A suspected food-related health scare has gripped Maria Mwengere Secondary School in Rundu after several hostel learners were rushed to hospital.
The situation began on Sunday evening when learners reportedly fell ill following supper at the school hostel. By Monday morning, more students showed similar symptoms, prompting urgent hospitalisation. One learner is said to be in a critical condition and remains under close observation in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Rundu Intermediate Hospital.
Kavango East Director of Education, Christine Shilima, confirmed this afternoon that 67 learners from Maria Mwengere Senior Secondary School were taken to the Rundu State Hospital between Sunday and Monday after allegedly consuming food served in the school’s dining hall on Saturday.
18 learners were admitted in the early hours of Sunday, with the number later increasing to 33.
Meanwhile, on Monday morning, 34 other learners were admitted, bringing the total to 67.
Shilima said the learners were treated and are reportedly stable after medical check-ups.
One boy, who is said to be a person with a disability, was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) early Monday morning, but has since been transferred to the male ward in a stable condition.
Health officials have not yet confirmed whether food contamination was the cause, but samples are being analysed as part of the ongoing probe.
