Innocent Sibonginkosi Ncube
BULAWAYO — Three learners from Robert Sinyoka Primary School are in critical condition at Mpilo Central Hospital after mistakenly ingesting potassium permanganate, believing it to be a spice.
Saison Maseko, the chairperson of the School Development Committee, confirmed the alarming incident to Southern Eye, stating that the students fell ill after consuming the chemical.
“I was informed that a learner brought the substance and consumed it. You know children being children often just share what they eat, and it was all just an unfortunate mistake,” Maseko explained.
Potassium permanganate is a chemical compound commonly used as an antiseptic for treating skin infections and wounds. It is also utilized in water purification to oxidize contaminants and remove iron and hydrogen sulfide.
Mpilo Central Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Narcissius Dzvanga, was unavailable for comment due to being on leave and referred inquiries to the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Noma Mabhena.
However, Mabhena was also unavailable for comment at the time of publication.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and awareness regarding the handling of chemicals, particularly in school settings. Community members are urging for increased education on the dangers of ingesting non-food substances to prevent future occurrences.
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