GRADE 4 STUDENT DIES AFTER SCHOOL DEWORMING ACTIVITY IN CAVITE

A GRADE 4 pupil died of septic shock after a school deworming activity in Trece Martires City, Cavite, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday confirmed.

According to DepEd, the victim was a Grade 4 learner from Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City.

In a statement, the DepEd extended its deepest condolences to the family of the 8-year-old boy.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and the entire school community,” the DepEd said.

“We are providing the necessary emotional, psychological, and logistical support to the family during this difficult time. We want to assure everyone that the safety and well-being of our learners remain our highest priority,” it added.

An investigation showed that on July 2, the school held a routine deworming activity in coordination with the City Health Office.

The DepEd said several learners felt unwell afterward. The following day, the Grade 4 pupil was rushed to the hospital  after experiencing vomiting.

“Based on initial medical findings, the cause of death was linked to an infection that led to septic shock,” the Department said.

Authorities are investigating the incident.

“DepEd is also taking this opportunity to review our own health and safety protocols, to ensure the well-being of every learner,” it said.

“We respectfully ask the public to keep the bereaved family in their thoughts and to rely on verified information from health experts as we navigate this tragedy together,” DepEd added.

In a separate statement, DepEd Cavite vowed to cooperate with any inquiries in relation to the deworming activity that happened in the school.

The family of the victim cried for justice and sought the help of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct an investigation into the incident that led to the boy’s death.