Grade 4 student dies after deworming in Cavite school

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) in Region IV-A has confirmed that a Grade 4 student died after a recent deworming activity in Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex in Cavite.

In a statement, the DepEd-Calabarzon expressed its sadness over the incident and assured the public that DepEd-Cavite would participate if a probe would be conducted on the student’s death.

“The administration of DepEd-Cavite, in general, and Hugo Perez Elementary School-Annex faculty and staff, in particular, are deeply saddened about the death of a Grade 4 pupil following a deworming activity conducted within school,” the statement read in part.

According to unconfirmed reports online, the victim was a Grade 4 male student from Trece Martires City.

The child was allegedly given deworming medicine on July 2. He complained of headache and started vomiting after taking it.

Later, the boy developed fever and severe stomach pain and taken to a hospital. He died on July 3.

“To all those who are equally saddened, as well as those alarmed, anxious, even those who are infuriated by the unfortunate event, of which no one certainly wished to happen, rest assured, the DepEd Cavite Province and the school administration concerned, are not standing by idly and are continuously making efforts in reaching out to extend our immeasurable depth of sympathy and prayers to the bereaved family and loved ones of our departed pupil,” DepEd said.

According to the DepEd regional office, it is “in constant coordination with the proper authorities concerned regarding the unfortunate incident.”

It stressed that DepEd-Cavite officials, employees and personnel would participate if there would be a legal process or inquiry on the incident.

“As a learner-centered public institution with the welfare of the children and the youth at its heart, we are committed not only to ensure the building of a truly educated population, but to safeguard the health, life and limb of every learner from all walks of society,” DepEd-Calabarzon said.