Metro Manila, Philippines – An elementary student died of infection following a routine deworming activity, the Department of Education (DepEd) said on Monday, July 13.
The student, who attended the Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Trece Martires City, Cavite, was hospitalized after experiencing severe vomiting on July 3—a day after the campus health activity. Initial medical findings revealed that the cause of death was an infection that rapidly progressed to septic shock.
DepEd acknowledged that several other learners also experienced adverse symptoms and felt unwell after undergoing the deworming procedure.
“We are committed to fully understanding what happened and are working closely with health authorities as they investigate,” DepEd said in a statement.
The agency also noted that it is actively reviewing its health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of its learners.
“We are providing the necessary emotional, psychological, and logistical support to the family during this difficult time,” DepEd said.
