The Ministry of Health has allayed fears of a food poisoning incident at St. Thomas Aquinas Igumori Secondary School in Embu County, where some students suffered from diarrhea, vomiting, and severe stomach pains after consuming a common meal at the school.

In a statement on Monday February 10, 2025, Ministry of Health principal secretary Mary Muthoni noted that preliminary findings suggest that the students may have consumed contaminated beef.

“The State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards 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. The affected students have received the necessary medical attention and are out of danger,” read part of the statement.

At the same time, the Health PS informed the general public that 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.

“School heads are reminded to prioritize the health and safety of students by implementing robust food safety protocols and ensuring a clean, safe and hygienic learning environment,” said the Health PS.

In addition, the PS urged food business operators to ensure the safety and quality of all food products supplied to schools.

She also encouraged Public Health Officers in charge of school sanitation and food safety to 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.