124 Mukumu Girls students hospitalised; Governor Barasa points to suspected poisoning

Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has addressed suspected poisoning of hundreds of students from Sacred Hearts Mukumu Girls High School.

Speaking on Tuesday, Barasa revealed that over 124 students had been taken ill at Kakamega County General Hospital by 9pm. They reportedly presented symptoms of acute fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pains.

"The number of affected students at the facility continued rising and as at 9:00pm, 124 victims had been attended to by medics, of which 13 students have been admitted so far due to severe dehydration. The conditions of 111 other students is still under investigation before further action is taken," the county boss added.

A further 16 students are also receiving treatment at St Elizabeth Mission Hospital Mukumu.

Probe into the case

Preliminary investigations at the Kakamega hospital have reportedly not confirmed any particular infectious agent, although doctors indicate possible cases of food or water poisoning.

"Other investigations are ongoing to identify the exact cause of illness. Triaging of the patients and initiation of emergency care is also ongoing," Governor Barasa added.

He called upon parents of the 2,200 students from Mukumu Girls to wait for a comprehensive probe into the case.

While wishing the victims a speedy recovery, the governor promised the establishment of a "dedicated" health desk at the county hospital.