News / National
3 pupils hospitalized after mistaking chemical for spice
05 Dec 2024 at 06:59hrs | Views
Three pupils from Robert Sinyoka Primary School in Bulawayo are in critical condition at Mpilo Central Hospital after ingesting potassium permanganate, a chemical compound they mistook for a spice.
The incident was confirmed by Village Development Committee chairperson Saison Maseko, who described it as a tragic mistake.
"I was informed that a learner brought the substance, and they consumed it," Maseko said. "You know children being children, often just share what they eat, and it was all just an unfortunate mistake."
According to reports, one of the pupils, who remains hospitalized, had been given the potassium permanganate by his parents to treat wounds. The chemical is commonly used for treating skin conditions such as eczema and impetigo.
The children reportedly fell ill after consuming the substance, leading to their hospitalization.
Mpilo Central Hospital's Chief Executive Officer Narcissius Dzvanga confirmed the case but referred further inquiries to the hospital's public relations officer, Noma Mabhena, who was unavailable for comment.
The incident has raised concerns about the accessibility of potentially harmful substances to children and the need for heightened awareness and education on chemical safety in households. Parents and guardians have been urged to ensure that chemicals are securely stored and clearly labeled to prevent similar incidents.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
The incident was confirmed by Village Development Committee chairperson Saison Maseko, who described it as a tragic mistake.
"I was informed that a learner brought the substance, and they consumed it," Maseko said. "You know children being children, often just share what they eat, and it was all just an unfortunate mistake."
According to reports, one of the pupils, who remains hospitalized, had been given the potassium permanganate by his parents to treat wounds. The chemical is commonly used for treating skin conditions such as eczema and impetigo.
The children reportedly fell ill after consuming the substance, leading to their hospitalization.
Mpilo Central Hospital's Chief Executive Officer Narcissius Dzvanga confirmed the case but referred further inquiries to the hospital's public relations officer, Noma Mabhena, who was unavailable for comment.
The incident has raised concerns about the accessibility of potentially harmful substances to children and the need for heightened awareness and education on chemical safety in households. Parents and guardians have been urged to ensure that chemicals are securely stored and clearly labeled to prevent similar incidents.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Source - newsday
