By Johnathan Paoli
Six children who recently died in Naledi, Soweto, were exposed to an organophosphate pesticide known as terbufos, according to Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi.
“This chemical is commonly used in agriculture, but is not intended for domestic use. Our investigations suggest that some spaza shop owners may be using it as a pesticide to manage rodent infestations,” Motsoaledi told reporters on Monday.
Five of the six friends died after eating chips from a spaza shop. The sixth learner died days later in hospital. There has been a dramatic increase in children falling ill after buying food from spaza shops.
This revelation follows an extensive investigation by a team of experts from the National Institute for Communicable Diseases.
Initial speculation had suggested that the cause of death might be linked to carbamates, another class of chemicals.
However, Motsoaledi clarified that further toxicological assessments have definitively identified terbufos as the culprit.
The minister emphasised that children were particularly vulnerable to organophosphate exposure due to their smaller body mass and developing organs, which make them more susceptible to toxicity.
Symptoms of organophosphate poisoning include severe diarrhoea, vomiting and excessive salivation, which the minister said caregivers must be on the lookout for. .
Motsoaledi highlighted the importance of timely medical intervention, recommending intravenous atropine as the antidote for organophosphate and carbamate poisoning.
He urged healthcare professionals to utilise the AfriTox app, a tool designed to provide immediate guidance on managing poisoning cases.
Four individuals were arrested for allegedly illegally selling dangerous chemicals, however, Motsoaledi clarified that these arrests were not directly related to the terbufos poisoning case.
As investigations continue, authorities are urging community members to remain vigilant about food safety and to report any suspected cases of poisoning to local health officials.
INSIDE EDUCATION
