At least two schools based in Mohale's Hoek district were closed temporarily, following chicken pox outbreak and hospitalization of some students due to contaminated water.

This was revealed by the Minister of Health Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

Mr. Mochoboroane said of the 51 people, whom 47 were students and four were teachers from Mount Carmel High School at Mpharane, complained of fatigue, diarrhoea, stomach ache and cough amongst others, saying the first group was seen at Mpharane hospital on March 27 .

He indicated that until now, four students were admitted at the hospital and had signs of diarrhoea and dehydration, indicating that one child had died.

He said they were tested and the results indicated that some consumed traditional medicine, adding that previous results showed detection of salmonella typhi, which causes stomach fever due to contaminated food or water. He stated that to some students, the results showed liver infection due to toxin exposure or overuse of medicines.

In another issue, Mr. Mochoboroane disclosed that 15 children were affected by chicken pox at Morifi High School based in Mekalimeng, saying although the disease is communicable, it is easily controlled if detected earlier.

He therefore emphasised that investigations are continuing and the Ministry will provide feedback once they are completed, calling on members of the public to wash hands with soap, boil water, cook food thoroughly and go to health centres whenever they feel sick.