Food poisoning downs 19 students

MANILA, Philippines — At least 19 second graders in Marikina City were rushed to the hospital yesterday for apparent food poisoning.

The victims were celebrating the birthday of their classmate, who treated them to spaghetti, chicken, hamburgers and soft drinks delivered by a fastfood restaurant before recess, said Chief Superintendent Romulo Sapitula, Eastern Police District director.

During recess, the students went to the canteen of Calumpang Elementary School, where they ate champorado and biscuits, he added.

An hour after the celebration, the students started vomiting and complaining of stomach pain, Sapitula said. A police report attributed the symptoms to food poisoning.

The students were treated at the school clinic and personnel from the city’s Rescue 161 gave them first aid. When they continued to suffer from stomach pain, the students were rushed to the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center for treatment.

Teacher Ma. Rosenie Reforsado claimed the students were discharged after doctors found they simply suffered from hyperacidity.