68 students hospitalised after suspected food poisoning in Embu

A total of 68 students from St. Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Mbeere South, Embu County, were treated for stomach aches and diarrhea after consuming suspected contaminated beef.

According to the school principal Paul Mwaniki, a bull was slaughtered on Wednesday for a feast, and a veterinarian inspected and certified the meat as safe for consumption. Most of the beef was eaten on the same day without incident. 

However, a section of teachers and students, including form four candidates, consumed the bull’s head on Thursday. By Friday morning, several students experienced severe stomach discomfort and diarrhea.

The affected students were rushed to Kiritiri Level 4 Hospital, where most were treated and discharged. However, 11 remained under observation, and three were referred to Embu Level 5 Hospital for advanced treatment.

Speaking at the school, Embu County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Health, Jamal Runyenje, confirmed that preliminary investigations pointed to improper handling of the beef head as the cause of contamination.

“The situation is under control, and we assure residents that we are prepared for any eventuality. Medical supplies have been sourced from our stores to treat the affected students,” Runyenje said.

He commended healthcare workers for their swift response and urged institutions to adhere to strict food safety measures. The school administration, meanwhile, has been advised to source meat only from vendors vetted by the county government.