Midday Meal Turns Toxic, 15 School Kids Hospitalised
15 children were hospitalised after eating a worm-infected midday meal at Khudadadpur Primary School in Mathurapur Block-I, located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. The affected students were quickly taken to Mathurapur Rural Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, district officials later confirmed that all the children are now out of danger and recovering well.
How the Incident Unfolded
The situation turned tense soon after the children complained of vomiting and severe stomach pain following their midday meal. Reports suggest that the food served to them was contaminated with worms, leading to immediate illness among several students.
As the news spread, anxious parents and guardians rushed to the school premises. Anger and fear quickly escalated, prompting them to protest in front of the school building. In a dramatic turn, they locked the main gate, trapping the teachers and staff inside for several hours.
Police and Administration Response
Local police officers from Mathurapur Police Station soon arrived to manage the situation. They spoke to the protesting guardians and urged them to remain calm. After about two hours of negotiation, the parents finally agreed to end the protest and unlock the school gate, allowing teachers and staff to leave safely.
Official Statements and Investigation
Speaking on the matter, the headmistress, Uma Pal, acknowledged that there had indeed been a problem with the quality of the midday meal served that day. She confirmed, “I have already reported the issue to higher authorities for further action.”
Following the incident, the block administration launched an immediate investigation to determine how the contaminated food reached the students and to prevent such incidents in the future.
Health and Safety Concerns
This case has once again raised serious concerns about the safety and hygiene of midday meals served in government schools. Medical professionals have stressed that foodborne infections, especially those caused by worms or other parasites, can lead to acute gastroenteritis, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dehydration, particularly among children.
Experts emphasise the need for strict food quality checks, regular kitchen inspections, and better hygiene training for midday meal staff to ensure children’s safety.
Conclusion
While all the affected students are now recovering, the incident of 15 children being hospitalised after eating worm-infected midday meal serves as a serious reminder of the importance of maintaining proper food safety standards in school nutrition programs. Authorities are expected to strengthen monitoring measures to prevent such alarming lapses in the future.
Source:Â Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
- Health News and Updates,People Forum
- 5 November 2025
- 09:00
