Food poisoning awareness! | Daily Sun

Ekurhuleni Department of Health promoter Nontlantla Sidaki talks to shop owner Sabelo Mazibuko during the Food Safety Health Awareness campaign in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni. Photo by Happy Mnguni

THE Department of Health has issued a food poisoning warning to spaza shop owners and the Katlehong community in Ekurhuleni.

On Friday, 6 September, a food safety health awareness campaign was held at Buyafuthi Hostel in Katlehong.

Communicable Disease Manager from Ekurhuleni Health District, Dineo Ndimande emphasised the importance of food safety and handling to prevent poisoning and promote safe pesticide use.

Spaza shop owner, Sabelo Mazibuko appreciated the department’s efforts, noting the importance of checking product expiration dates.

Resident, Philisiwe Mpanza suggested holding the awareness campaign quarterly due to rising food poisoning cases, especially among kids.

Ntombenhle Magagula highlighted a need for vigilance against expired food, citing incidents of kids falling ill after consuming such products.

The campaign was prompted by an increase in food poisoning incidents, particularly in townships, informal settlements, and hostels.

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Gauteng Health spokesman Motalatale Modiba reported two incidents on 29 August at Dr George Mukhari Academic Hospital and Jabulani Dumane Community Health Centre.

Two boys, aged four and six, suffered from suspected a foodborne illness after sharing a meal.

The four-year-old died on arrival at a hospital, while his brother later succumbed to the illness. A cousin, who didn’t eat the same food, was discharged after observation.

In another incident, three kids from Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, presented with symptoms of vomiting and body weakness.

Two kids, aged three and five, died on arrival, while a six-year-old was resuscitated and remains critical.

A 28-year-old man, who shared potato chips with the little ones, was also hospitalised and later discharged.

Ekurhuleni district recorded 119 cases, with four deaths, followed by Joburg with 40 cases, Tshwane with 31 cases and three deaths, West Rand with 14 cases, and Sedibeng with three cases and three deaths.

Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko raised concern over the rising deaths related to foodborne illnesses.

The department is collaborating with stakeholders and the Gauteng Department of Education to raise awareness and conduct health education sessions in schools, focusing on hand hygiene, proper food handling, water hygiene, clean environments, sanitation, and food expiry dates.