The Ministry of Health has assured that the food poisoning incident at St Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Embu County is under control and there should be no panic over the same.
Public Health PS Mary Muthoni in a statement on Monday said the state department 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,” Muriuki said.
“The affected students have received the necessary medical attention and are out of danger.”
The PS said the incident underscores the critical importance of adhering to strict food safety protocols throughout the entire food chain.
She advised schools 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.
Further, school heads are reminded of the need to prioritise the health and safety of students by implementing robust food safety protocols and ensuring a clean, safe and hygienic learning environment.
Muriuki stated that Food Business Operators must ensure the safety and quality of all food products supplied to schools.
For the Public Health Officers in charge of school sanitation and food safety, they must intensify food inspections and enforce regulations as per the Food, Drugs and Chemical Substances Act (Cap 254) and the Public Health Act (Cap 242) of the Laws of Kenya.
Further, Muriuki stated that all health facilities must maintain high levels of preparedness to respond effectively to foodborne illnesses and outbreaks.
The incident occurred after Form Four students consumed beef on Thursday evening, which resulted in some students being hospitalised on Friday morning.
The affected students developed severe stomach pains and diarrhea, prompting an urgent medical response.
The affected students were rushed to Kiritiri Level Four Hospital where five were referred to Embu Level Five Hospital for specialised treatment. They are in stable condition.
The rest were treated and discharged as Public Health Officials from the county government commenced a probe into the matter.
School Principal Paul Mwaniki regretted the unfortunate turn of events, saying the contamination could have taken place during the preparation of the meal.
Mwaniki said they had taken all precautionary measures including having the meat inspected and certified as fit for consumption by relevant authorities.
