Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 11 (HBTV): At least 43 students were hospitalised after allegedly consuming food contaminated by a lizard at a school in Coimbatore, officials said on Tuesday.
The affected students, including 30 boys and 13 girls, were rushed to a government hospital where they are currently undergoing treatment and are reported to be stable.
Coimbatore City Municipal Corporation (CCMC) Commissioner M Sivaguru Prabhakaran confirmed the incident and said the students were admitted to the hospital after falling ill shortly after eating the food.
‘Thirty boys and thirteen girls fell ill after eating food contaminated by a lizard and were rushed and admitted to the government hospital. They are currently undergoing intensive treatment,’ Prabhakaran said.
He added that the students will remain under medical observation until 9 pm.
‘All the students are currently stable and doing well, and treatment is being provided under the supervision of a team of five doctors,’ he said.
Following the incident, the CCMC has initiated an investigation into the school’s catering and hygiene practices.
Officials will conduct a detailed inspection of the school’s kitchen facilities, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings, Prabhakaran said.
The municipal corporation will also issue a circular to schools in the region directing them to strictly follow food safety and handling protocols.
(ANI)