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Eastern Cape Suspected Food Poisoning: Four Children Discharged, One in Critical Care After Two Deaths

Officials suspect organophosphate exposure pending toxicology results.

Overview

  • Seven young children from Msintsi and NU3 Mdantsane were treated after sudden illness marked by vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness.
  • Two children were declared dead on arrival at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital despite resuscitation efforts.
  • Four children have been released from care, and one remains hospitalised at Frere Hospital receiving specialised critical treatment.
  • Environmental health teams collected clinical and food samples, with confirmation of the cause awaiting post‑mortem and laboratory testing.
  • A local spaza shop was ordered to close temporarily as investigators from the health department, SAPS and the municipality conduct a coordinated probe after reports the children ate snacks together.