Bhubaneswar, July 23 (UDN): A suspected case of food poisoning has triggered concern in Odisha after more than 50 girl students of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya in Saragada, Bijatala block of Mayurbhanj district, fell ill following the consumption of chhatua.
The students, enrolled in Classes VI to X, reportedly developed symptoms such as stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhoea soon after consuming the food on Wednesday evening. School authorities and local officials immediately shifted the affected students to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Of the affected students, 19 were admitted for medical observation, while the others received primary treatment. Officials said most of the hospitalised students have since recovered and been discharged, with all remaining under medical supervision.
District administration and health officials have launched an inquiry to determine the exact cause of the illness. Samples of the food are expected to be examined as part of the investigation to ascertain whether contamination or other factors were responsible.
Authorities have assured parents that all necessary medical assistance is being provided and that appropriate measures will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. The incident has also prompted renewed attention to food quality and safety standards in residential schools.
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