A suspected food poisoning outbreak at Gobizizwe Agricultural High School in O.R. Tambo District is under investigation after several learners fell ill on 12 August 2025 with diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and headaches.
Background
The Eastern Cape Department of Health reported the first cases on 13 August, prompting an immediate response from O.R. Tambo District Municipality’s Environmental Health Practitioners.
Learners began showing symptoms on the evening of 12 August, raising concerns among parents and school officials.
Investigation Measures
Health officials launched a full investigation, which includes:
- Inspections of the school premises and food preparation areas
- Collection of water samples from three school sources for lab testing
- Food samples and surface swabs for analysis
- Checks on kitchen facilities and the school’s agricultural project
- Interviews with affected learners
- Tracing and testing of all suppliers and agricultural remedies linked to the school
Investigations remain ongoing with daily follow-ups across the school’s supply chain and surrounding communities.
Guidance for Parents and Guardians
Authorities have urged families to:
- Monitor children closely for diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting or headaches
- Seek medical care immediately if symptoms appear
- Report any new cases to the nearest clinic or directly to the school
- Ensure hydration if children have mild symptoms while awaiting care
Community Impact
The District Municipality stressed that the priority is the safety of learners and that no wider public risk has been identified at this stage. Updates will be communicated if new risks emerge.
For now, parents and the community are advised not to panic, as the outbreak is confined to Gobizizwe Agricultural High School.
Impact Summary
- Learners at Gobizizwe Agricultural High School affected by suspected food poisoning
- O.R. Tambo District Municipality leading a full-scale investigation
- Food, water, and supply chain samples under laboratory testing
- Parents urged to monitor children and seek immediate medical care if needed
- No wider public risk identified outside the school community
- Ongoing updates promised until the investigation concludes
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