Over 70 Learners Hospitalized After Suspected Food Poisoning In A Matric Camp

More than 70 Grade 12 pupils from various schools in the West Rand area are currently receiving treatment for suspected food poisoning at Carletonville District Hospital.




The incident occurred on Thursday morning, 10 October, during a matric camp held at Fochville Secondary School.

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) confirmed that 74 female pupils, aged between 17 and 20 years, from Fochville Secondary School, Badirile Secondary School, and Wedela Technical School, presented with symptoms of stomach cramps and diarrhea.

According to departmental spokesperson Motalatale Modiba, 42 pupils initially sought medical attention at Fochville Clinic, while 32 pupils reported to Kokosi Clinic around 9 a.m.



“Upon assessment, all affected pupils were referred to Carletonville District Hospital for further medical evaluation,” Modiba explained. While 73 learners were admitted to the hospital, one pupil was taken to a private healthcare facility.

Thankfully, the majority of the pupils are in stable condition and are being closely monitored by healthcare teams.

This unfortunate event follows a recent tragedy in Naledi, Soweto, where five children died due to suspected food poisoning, and one child remains in critical condition in hospital. The GDoH is continuing to investigate the source of the poisoning at the Fochville matric camp, as concerns about food safety and student health remain at the forefront.




Parents and guardians of the affected learners have been notified, and the department is urging other learners to seek immediate medical attention should they exhibit similar symptoms.