Seven Children Hospitalised After Suspected Food Poisoning Near East London

Seven Children Hospitalised After Suspected Food Poisoning Near Berlin

BERLIN, EASTERN CAPE – The Eastern Cape Department of Health has confirmed that seven children were hospitalised following a suspected food poisoning incident in Msintsi Location near Berlin on Friday.

According to the department, six children from Msintsi Location and one child from NU3 Mdantsane were admitted to Cecilia Makiwane Hospital after presenting with symptoms consistent with food poisoning, including vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness.

The affected children are aged between four and seven years.

One child transferred for advanced care

Health authorities confirmed that two of the children initially required resuscitation efforts by clinical teams. One child was later intubated and transferred to Frere Hospital for advanced critical care.

The remaining five children remain under medical observation at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital and were reported to be stable and continuing to receive treatment.

Investigation into source of poisoning underway

Preliminary information provided to the department indicates that the children from Msintsi Location had been playing together and consumed snacks before falling ill. The circumstances surrounding the illness of the child from NU3 Mdantsane are still being established.

At this stage, the exact cause and source of the suspected food poisoning have not yet been confirmed.

The Department of Health has activated its emergency and outbreak response protocols. The District Environmental Health Unit has been deployed to investigate the incident and determine the possible source of contamination.

Department offers support to families

The department has extended its condolences to the affected families and confirmed that clinical and psychosocial support is being provided as part of the response.

Health officials said further updates will be communicated as more information becomes available.