Gandhinagar: A mysterious health scare has struck J.M. Desai Vidhyamandir School in Jhank village, Dehgam taluka, Gujarat, where over 120 students have been affected by a mysterious eye condition.

The children reported symptoms including eye redness, irritation, burning sensation, and double vision, triggering a swift response from the state health department.

Out of the school’s 225 students, 122 were impacted and rushed to the Gandhinagar Civil Hospital for treatment and observation. The first cases emerged on June 30, and as of Wednesday, 120 students continue to experience symptoms, with officials yet to determine the exact cause of the illness.

According to health officials, after a thorough screening of 120 of the affected students, most of them were discharged, while two remain under observation for lingering symptoms.

The authorities confirmed that the condition of all students is currently stable, and no major complications have been detected so far. The incident triggered action, with teams from the district administration and the Kadadara Primary Health Centre visiting the school for an on-site investigation and preliminary treatment.

Following the visit, the students were referred to the Gandhinagar Civil Hospital for further tests and monitoring. Civil hospital authorities ensured not only medical care but also provided meals to the admitted children. Medical tests, including blood and urine samples, were conducted, and initial reports have ruled out any damage to the kidneys or liver, a major relief for their concerned families.

However, the exact cause of the outbreak remains unknown, leaving health officials puzzled. Various departments, including health, food safety, and education, have swung into action, collecting water samples from the school and hostel, along with food samples. These have been sent for laboratory testing, and officials are now awaiting the reports to determine the root cause of the mysterious illness.

Despite over 24 hours passing since the first cases were reported, no department has been able to identify the exact source or nature of the illness. The lack of clarity and coordination has raised concerns about administrative preparedness and response in handling such sudden health outbreaks. IANS