A number of school students in Patna fell ill on Wednesday, 26 February 2026, after consuming medication during a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign aimed at eliminating lymphatic filariasis in the district.

The incident occurred at a primary school in the Ganpat Rai Tola area of Athmalgola, where the children were given Albendazole tablets as part of the state-wide anti-filariasis drive. Shortly after taking the medication, several students complained of discomfort, including nausea and dizziness, prompting concern among teachers and health workers.

Medical teams, including a Quick Response Team and ambulance staff, were immediately dispatched to the school. The affected children were taken to the Athmalgola Primary Health Centre for examination and treatment. Most of the students recovered quickly with medical care, and a few with persistent symptoms were referred to the Bakhtiyarpur Community Health Centre for further observation. Authorities said all children are currently stable.

Health officials said the reactions appeared to be mild side effects of the medication, particularly when taken on an empty stomach, and emphasised that the

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drug is a standard preventive treatment in filariasis elimination programmes. Parents briefly protested at the schools before being assured by officials about the safety and monitoring of the campaign.

The filariasis elimination campaign continues across Bihar, and authorities urged parents to remain calm and cooperate with health workers.

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