The Santa Rosa Mission community of Moruka, North West District, has over the last two months been plagued by a mysterious phenomenon that initially showed itself three years ago.

“Apart from Fiona’s case, we have had two more attacks this week. We try to keep a low profile but, when the children who were attacked before became aware of it, they seemed affected,” the Headteacher Mr. Glynn La Cruz reported.

He said teachers try their best to isolate the patients and avoid panic.

De La Cruz pointed out that, in keeping with the Education Ministry policy, when the girls are stricken, they are to be conveyed to Kumaka District Hospital for medical attention.

However, this is often done in vain as medical professionals are unable to offer any relief from the paranormal sickness and religious leaders are called to pray with the afflicted.

One such leader is Roman Catholic Priest, Father Oscar Barraza.

A parent, Ms. Anita Vansluytman said her 17-year-old daughter, Duanna Heyliger is coping with the examinations although she seems a little off focus.

The science student sitting six subjects is suffering stomach pains and De La Cruz confirmed that the sick girls have a problem with their concentration.

He said, apart from that, the actual occurrences of attacks of the ailment pose an even greater challenge at the school.

Since it resurfaced, over the past two months, it has hit 67 girls between the ages of 13 and 18.

Tests carried out by health care personnel revealed no genetic or other links and no long-term physical consequences but the other effects are just as significant and worrying, as Fiona’s sister, Melissa Abrahams said.

According to her, the family is worried and are contemplating whether or not to allow Fiona to return to school.

However, the girl’s status was reportedly stable up to press time.

Another ill girl, 15-year-old Mollyann La Rose has not been to school for more than a month but her mother, Graciann La Rose said it is possible she might attend next month.