About 47 pupils from Lebohang Primary and Dr Nhlapo Primary schools in Sebokeng were taken to a local medical facility after falling sick from eating snacks that had allegedly been stolen.
The incident happened on Monday.
“According to our information, the affected learners started cramping after eating snacks allegedly looted from a spaza shop in the area. They experienced vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps and shortness of breath,” said Gauteng department of education spokesperson Steve Mabona.
Mabona said 37 pupils were discharged, with 10 still in hospital and receiving medical attention.
“Necessary medical tests will be conducted and our psychological support officials will go to both schools. We wish them a speedy recovery,” he said.
Last week, a pupil from Onkgopotse Tiro Primary School in Tshepisong, Roodepoort, died at a local clinic from alleged food poisoning after apparently eating a pack of biscuits bought from a local spaza shop.
Two grade 3 boys complained of stomach cramps in class and were taken to Tshepisong Clinic.
The department urged schools and communities to be vigilant about food after 62 pupils at two Tshwane schools became ill after apparently eating snacks bought from street vendors.
The incidents happened at Tlotlompho Primary School in Ga-Rankuwa and its counterpart in Winterveldt, Reimolotswe.
About six children have died in a month at separate locations after apparently eating food bought at spaza shops. Four died in Gauteng within days of each other, while two died in the Free State in what appeared to be similar circumstances.
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