The ManicaPost
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
TRAGEDY struck a Hobhouse family in Mutare after a four-year-old boy died after being choked by a leach fruit seed.
Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Inspector Nobert Muzondo confirmed the death of Ashton Jakata after he was choked by a leach fruit seed.
“Ashton Jakata died after being choked by a leach fruit on December 11 in Hobhouse suburb. The young boy was eating leaches with his aunt when he was choked.
“After having the fruit, the aunt noticed that the boy was having difficulties in breathing. She tried to assist the boy, but failed. The aunt took the boy to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The matter was reported at ZRP Chikanga,” said Insp Muzondo.
While leaches, which are classified as a tree nut (a common allergen), may be introduced as soon as baby is ready for solids, which is generally around six months of age, it is important to note that they can be a choking hazard.
