20 Katete Girls Pupils Develop Suspected Movement Disorder.

20 Katete Girls Pupils Develop Suspected Movement Disorder.

About 20 pupils at Katete Girls Boarding Secondary School in Katete District have developed a suspected movement disorder that causes them to jerk or bounce while walking.

The condition, mainly affecting Grade 11 learners, was first recorded on March 8, 2026, and cases rose to 19 by March 18. A report by a Katete-based frontline field epidemiologist indicates that the cases were concentrated in two classes, with signs pointing to a possible exposure in Class 11R between March 11 and 13.

Eastern Province Education Officer, Brainley Malambo, confirmed that the affected pupils were taken to St Francis Mission Hospital, where they were quarantined for observation and treatment. He said most of the learners have since been discharged after showing signs of recovery and described the condition as largely psychological.

Health authorities suspect the condition may be linked to a focal neurological disorder, although investigations are still ongoing. Experts have not ruled out mass psychogenic illness and have recommended environmental checks, clinical assessments, and psychosocial support for the affected pupils.

Mr. Malambo also noted that this is not the first time such an incident has occurred at the school, raising concern about a possible recurring pattern.