Editor's Review

The first time governor revealed that the 59 students ingested wild fruits leading to a health scare at the institution.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti has issued a statement after 59 primary school students were rushed to various hospitals over a suspected case of poisoning.

Wavinya Ndeti explained that the unfortunate event happened on Tuesday, February 13 at Kanaani Integrated Primary School in Athi River Sub-County.

The first time governor revealed that the 59 students ingested wild fruits leading to a health scare at the institution.

Medics from various facilities acted swiftly and managed to contain the unfortunate situation. One pupil however is still under observation but in stable condition, Ndeti stated.

Medical officials from Machakos County addressing the press after 59 pupils were rushed to hospital on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. 

"Some 59 pupils of ages ranging between six and nine years were yesterday taken to Athi River Level 4 Hospital after experiencing severe abdominal pains and vomiting. The good news is that medics at the facility managed to deal with all cases," she stated.

"51 pupils were treated and discharged while 8 others were retained at the hospital for overnight observation and discharged this morning after being stabilized. One pupil is still under observation at the facility but in stable condition," Wavinya added.

Following the containment of the cases, Wavinya announced that the county medical officers have taken samples of the wild fruit for analysis at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

She noted that the analysis will help the county set proper protective mechanisms to prevent students from eating the wild fruit.

The county however did not reveal the wild fruit suspected to have caused a health scare at the primary school.