84 Children Fall Ill After Mid-Day Meal in Lakhisarai
Lakhisarai: At least 84 children from Upkramit Madhya Vidyalaya Mudwariya in Piparia block in Lakhisarai were admitted to hospital on Monday evening after falling ill following their mid-day meal. Several students reported finding worms in the lentils, but claimed the kitchen staff removed them and served the food regardless.
Anshu Kumari, a Class VIII student, alleged that a chameleon was found in the meal, leading to widespread illness among the students.
Medical Response and Investigation
As soon as District Magistrate Mithilesh Mishra was informed, he directed the health department to take swift action. Ambulances were dispatched from Sadar Hospital and Pipariya PHC, and all 84 affected children were admitted for treatment.
At Sadar Hospital, Dr Rakesh Kumar, paediatrician Dr Mamta, and Dr Hardeep Bageria examined the children. Ten students displayed clear symptoms of food poisoning, while others appeared anxious and distressed. After receiving medical attention, the children were discharged.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Chandan Kumar, SDPO Shivam Kumar, and education officials visited the hospital to assess the situation. Arrangements were made for biscuits and water to be provided to the children.
Timing of Illness Raises Questions
District Education Officer (DEO) Yaduvansh Ram expressed surprise at the delay in the onset of symptoms, noting that the children had eaten lunch at noon. “It is unusual that they fell ill so late. According to doctors, 10 children have symptoms of food poisoning, but all are stable,” he said.
The incident unfolded while the District Magistrate was holding a health department review meeting. Upon receiving the report, he ordered immediate medical intervention, and ambulances transported the affected students to hospital.
Students Recount Disturbing Experience
Several children reported feeling unwell after the meal. Nandini Kumari, one of the affected students, said she began feeling sick soon after eating. Another student described experiencing a headache immediately after consuming the food, claiming a chameleon had fallen into the vegetable dish.
