Wayanad, 06 June (H.S.) :More than 40 students of a school in Kerala's Wayanad district sought medical treatment after developing symptoms of suspected food poisoning on Friday, prompting health authorities to launch an investigation into the incident.

The affected students are from Mar Baselios AUP School at Koliyadi in Sulthan Bathery. More than 20 students were admitted to the Government Taluk Hospital in Sulthan Bathery, while several others received treatment at private hospitals in and around the town. Officials said the number of affected students could be higher as cases reported at smaller clinics have not yet been included in the official tally.

Education Department officials said around 35 students were initially admitted to three hospitals. With nearly 800 students enrolled at the school, authorities are closely monitoring the situation for any additional cases.

The students complained of symptoms including headache, fever, vomiting and diarrhoea. Doctors said many of them initially developed headache and fever before progressing to gastrointestinal symptoms.

Hospital authorities remained on alert through Friday night as students continued to arrive for treatment and observation. Additional ward facilities have been arranged, backup wards kept ready and extra medical personnel deployed to manage the situation.

As a precautionary measure, affected students are being closely monitored and isolation protocols have been put in place until the exact cause of the illness is determined.

Meanwhile, Health Department officials have launched a detailed investigation into the suspected outbreak. Food and biological samples have been collected and sent to the Government Medical College Hospital, Mananthavady, for laboratory analysis.

The test results, expected within 48 to 72 hours, are likely to determine whether the illness was caused by contaminated food, water or another infectious source.

All affected students are reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have advised parents to seek immediate medical attention if children develop symptoms such as persistent fever, vomiting, diarrhoea or signs of dehydration.

Officials are continuing surveillance and preventive measures while awaiting laboratory results to identify the source of the outbreak and prevent any further cases.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman