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‘Strange disease’ threatens school children

by Esther Sabi and Adda Ngoya (SAUT)

What some people have described it ‘as strange disease’ is currently threatening local primary school pupils in Arusha municipality.

The disease, which has been sending children down in fits of hysteria some even losing consciousness for hours was first reported in March this year.

The strange epidemic came to light when about 11 pupils of Naura primary collapsed  and were taken to Mount Meru hospital.

The Doctor in-charge at the hospital that time, Dr. Elingiria Mlay said the incident was a mild case of hysteria.

Dr. Mlay added that previously 15 girl students of Arusha Day Secondary also suffered the same problem but got discharged after counseling.

However, these cases have been increasing with each passing day affecting more primary schools within and in the outskirts of the municipality.

The second master of Sanawari primary school who preferred not to be mentioned by name in the paper said the “disease” threw down one pupil, Renalda Balthazar.

However, Renalda is said to have been transferred to the school from Naura primary school. In fact after the incident they sent her back to her former school.

One of the victims, Tumaini Daudi, a pupil at Naura said she felt dizzy after prolonged headache then collapsed  before starting to see weird images of strange people dancing, then she screamed.

Second master at the school, Hassan Msangi admits to facing such problems and that most pupils are usually taken to Mount Meru hospital for treatment  but  nothing wrong is ever found with them.

Levolosi primary school headmistress, Mrs Eugenia Lyimo admits to have such cases but explained them to be attacks of epilepsy for most students.

Still, Mrs Lyimo pointed out that, there are some problematic children who out of fear for punishment, class works or lesson may “feign” unconsciousness.

According to the headmistress, other pupils may collapse out of hunger a sentiment also shared by the headmistress of Naura, Anitha Mushi who spoke to this paper a few months ago.

Mrs Mushi cited cases of extended fatigue affecting overworked children, hunger and even serious cases of thirst.

The Regional Education Officer, Mrs. Hellen Mhando wasn’t available to comment on these incidents.

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Last modified: July 12, 2002.
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