New Delhi: A health alert was issued in Kerala’s Wayanad district after around 150 students of an aided upper primary school reported symptoms including
fever and vomiting over the last few days. Health authorities are investigating the incident while monitoring the condition of the affected children.
The students belong to Mar Baselios Aided Upper Primary School in Koilady. Officials have initiated precautionary measures to prevent any further spread of illness among students and staff.
Dozens admitted to hospital
Ofthe affected students, 38 were admitted to the Sulthan Bathery Taluk Hospital after their symptoms continued. Doctors have been treating the children and keeping them under observation.
Health officials said most of the students are stable and responding well to treatment. One teacher from the school has also developed similar symptoms and is under medical supervision.
School closed for one week
Following the large number of reported cases, authorities announced a one-week holiday for the school as a preventive measure.
Officials said the temporary closure would help reduce the risk of additional cases while investigations into the source of the illness continue.
The District Medical Officer assured parents that the situation is under control and there is no immediate cause for concern.
To handle the increased number of patients, a separate ward has been arranged at the Sulthan Bathery Taluk Hospital for affected students.
Investigation underway
According to local authorities, some students began showing symptoms on June 1. However, officials have not yet identified the exact cause behind the outbreak.
Teams from the Health Department collected samples from the school premises and nearby areas for laboratory analysis. Authorities are examining whether the illness could be linked to contaminated food, water, a viral infection or another source.
Authorities await test results
Health officials said laboratory reports will play a key role in identifying the reason behind the sudden illness among students.
Meanwhile, panchayat representatives who visited the hospital said the overall health condition of the admitted children remains satisfactory. They added that there has been no significant deterioration in the condition of any student so far.
Authorities said they will continue monitoring the situation closely and take further action based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
