The Ministry of Health has assured the public that a suspected food poisoning incident at St. Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Embu County is under control.
Principal Secretary for Public Health, Mary Muthoni, confirmed that the students hospitalized on Friday are out of danger adding that preliminary investigations had revealed that they consumed contaminated beef.
A total of 68 Form Four students developed severe stomach pains and diarrhoea after eating boiled cow’s head and soup on Thursday evening, prompting an urgent medical response. The school had slaughtered a bull to celebrate last year’s good KCSE performance.
“The Ministry of Health has received reports about the suspected food poisoning incident that occurred at St. Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Embu County. Preliminary findings suggest that the students may have consumed contaminated beef” she said in a statement.
She added “The State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards is working closely with the County Government of Embu to address the situation. The general public, parents and students are hereby assured that the situation is under control and there should be no panic over the same. The affected students have received the necessary medical attention and are out of danger”.
At the same time, the PS reminded the general public and institutions to adhere to food safety protocols.
She has directed Public Health Officers responsible for school sanitation and food safety to intensify inspections and enforce regulations in accordance with the Food, Drugs, and Chemical Substances Act (Cap 254) and the Public Health Act (Cap 242) of the Laws of Kenya.
“ Schools are advised to strictly adhere to the Kenya School Meals, Food Safety and Quality Guidelines and to implement proper hygiene and sanitation practices in all food handling areas. School heads are reminded to prioritize the health and safety of students by implementing robust food safety protocols and ensuring a clean, safe and hygienic learning environment” she said.
Others affected are food business operators who have been ordered to ensure the safety and quality of all food products supplied to schools.
All health facilities must maintain high levels of preparedness to respond effectively to foodborne illnesses and outbreaks.
