DepEd: Grade 4 student dies of septic shock, several learners felt unwell after Cavite school deworming
At A Glance
- DepEd said the cause of death was related to infection
- DepEd Cavite vowed to cooperate if there would be invesitgation
An infection that led to septic shock was the reason behind the death of a Grade 4 pupil in Trece Martires City in Cavite, the Department of Education (DepEd) confirmed on Monday, July 13.
In a statement, DepEd said several learners of the Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex also felt unwell after the deworming activity conducted in the school with the City Health Office.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and the entire school community,” the DepEd statement read.
“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.
The deworming activity was conducted on July 2 and DepEd stated that several learners felt unwell afterward, and the following day, the Grade 4 was hospitalized after experiencing vomiting.
“Based on initial medical findings, the cause of death was linked to an infection that led to septic shock,” DepEd said.
Authorities are now investigating what went wrong and DepEd also wants to fully understand all the circumstances pertaining to the deworming activity and later its effects on some of the learners.
“DepEd is also taking this opportunity to review our own health and safety protocols, to ensure the wellbeing 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.
“Should there be any ensuing legal processes and inquiries to be conducted by the duly constituted authorities in connection with the instant controversy, the DepEd Cavite Province officials, employees and personnel, shall not shirk from our responsibilities and sworn duties, and will wholly cooperate and be amenable whenever the need arises, living up to the time-honored principle of public office is a public trust,” it said.