Wayanad: Nearly 150 students of an aided upper primary school in Kerala’s Wayanad district have fallen ill with fever and vomiting over the past three days, prompting health authorities to launch an investigation and declare a week-long holiday for the institution.
The affected students belong to Mar Baselios Aided Upper Primary School at Koilady. Officials said that while most children are recovering, 38 students who continued to experience symptoms have been admitted to Bathery Taluk Hospital for treatment.
District Medical Officer (DMO) officials said there is currently no cause for panic, but precautionary measures have been taken to ensure the safety of students. A special ward has been established at Bathery Taluk Hospital to monitor and treat the affected children.
Health authorities also confirmed that a teacher from the school has reported similar symptoms and is under observation.
Local panchayat representatives who visited the hospital stated that the condition of the admitted students is stable and satisfactory. According to officials, some children began showing symptoms as early as June 1, but the exact cause of the illness has not yet been determined.
Doctors and health department teams have collected samples from the school and the affected students for laboratory testing. Authorities are awaiting the results to identify whether the outbreak is linked to food contamination, waterborne infection, a viral illness or any other health concern.
As a preventive step, the school will remain closed for a week while health officials continue their investigation and monitor the situation closely.
The Health Department has assured parents that all necessary medical and preventive measures are being taken and that the students are receiving appropriate care.
