Chennai, July 4:
Panic gripped a government school in Villupuram district after 21 students fell ill on Friday shortly after consuming chocolates distributed by a classmate to celebrate her birthday.
The incident occurred at the Panchayat Union Middle School in Chakkarapuram, where a Class 6 student shared chocolates with her classmates during school hours. Within a short time of consuming them, several students began experiencing discomfort.
According to initial reports, 11 girls and 10 boys complained of nausea, with many vomiting and a few reportedly fainting, triggering alarm among teachers and school staff.
Acting swiftly, the teachers rushed all affected students to the Gingee Government Hospital. The children were admitted and treated under medical supervision. Hospital authorities confirmed that the students were stable and responding to treatment.
Health officials and local authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the illness. Preliminary suspicion revolves around possible contamination or spoilage of the chocolates, though confirmation is awaited pending further investigation.
Parents were informed promptly, and officials have assured that necessary steps will be taken to prevent such incidents in the future. The condition of all students is currently under close observation.