The Ministry of Health has assured the public that the recent food poisoning incident at St. Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Embu County is under control, urging parents and students not to panic.
In a statement on Monday, February 10, Public Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni stated that the ministry is working closely with the Embu County Government to manage the situation effectively.
“The general public, parents, and students are assured that the situation is under control, and there is no cause for alarm. The affected students have received the necessary medical care and are now out of danger,” Muthoni said.
The PS emphasized the importance of adhering to strict food safety protocols in all learning institutions. She urged schools to comply with the Kenya School Meals, Food Safety, and Quality Guidelines and ensure proper hygiene and sanitation in food handling areas.
School administrators were reminded to prioritize student safety by enforcing robust food safety measures and maintaining a clean learning environment. Additionally, food suppliers were cautioned to guarantee the quality of all food products delivered to schools.
Muthoni also directed Public Health Officers responsible for school inspections to intensify food safety checks and enforce existing regulations under the Food, Drugs, and Chemical Substances Act (Cap 254) and the Public Health Act (Cap 242).
She further advised health facilities to stay prepared for swift responses to foodborne illnesses and potential outbreaks.
The food poisoning incident occurred after Form Four students consumed beef on Thursday evening, February 8. By Friday morning, some students developed severe stomach pains and diarrhea, prompting an immediate medical response.
The affected students were taken to Kiritiri Level Four Hospital, where five were later transferred to Embu Level Five Hospital for specialized treatment. Medical reports confirmed that they were in stable condition, while the rest were treated and discharged.
Health officials from the county government have launched investigations to determine the cause of contamination.
School Principal Paul Mwaniki expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging that the contamination may have occurred during the meal’s preparation.
He assured that the school followed all precautionary measures, including meat inspection and certification by relevant authorities before consumption.
Authorities are expected to release an official report after completing their investigation.
