Two children die of suspected food poisoning in Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape Health Department confirmed that two children have died from suspected food poisoning at Msintsi Location near Berlin on Saturday.

It is reported that six children aged between 4 and 7 were playing together and eating snacks before becoming ill.

“Preliminary information from families indicates that six of the children from Msintsi had been playing together and consumed snacks before becoming ill. The circumstances relating to one child from NU3 are still being established, said the department spokesperson Camagwini Mavovana.

The children were showing symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness.

Seven children in Msintsi (near Berlin) and NU Mdantsane are receiving medical care after suspected food poisoning. Sadly, two children passed away. Emergency protocols are active, and the source is under investigation.
The Department extends condolences to the families. pic.twitter.com/Jx9yYoHBli

— Eastern Cape Department of Health (@easterncapedoh) February 7, 2026

FIVE CHILDREN HOSPITALISED 

Five children are still receiving medical attention at Cecilia Makiwane Hospital and one child is intubated and has been transferred to Frere Hospital for advanced critical care, while the other four are said to be stable.

INVESTIGATION UNDERWAY

The cause of the suspected food poisoning remains under investigation and has not been confirmed.

“The department immediately activated its emergency and outbreak response protocols. The District Environmental Health Unit has been deployed to investigate the source of the illness,” said Mavovana.

The department has expressed its deepest condolences to the affected families.