Malawi: Over 130 students hospitalized due to suspected food poisoning

The Ministry of Education initially reported 45 admissions, with 42 students subsequently discharged, leaving three under medical care.

However, a later statement from the Blantyre District Health Office (DHO) disclosed that 131 students from the school were affected.

Among them, 53 received outpatient treatment, while 78 were admitted to the hospital.

As the investigation unfolds, it has been revealed that the suspected cause of the mass illness may be attributed to poisoned flour used in the preparation of a dietary pulp given to the students.

Preliminary findings suggest that the flour may have been contaminated with preservation chemicals that had not expired, rendering the pulp unsafe for human consumption.

Authorities have ordered the removal of the entire batch of maize and flour from the school's supply and have instructed the provision of rice to the students.

Although concerns have gripped parents and the public alike, it is reassuring to note that none of the affected students are critically ill, and they are expected to be discharged from the hospital in due course.