Thu Feb 26 07:42:33 UTC 2026: # Mass Drug Administration Campaign in Bihar Faces Setback as Students Fall Ill

The Story:
On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, several students in the Ganpat Rai Tola area of Athmalgola, Patna district, Bihar, fell ill after consuming medicine administered during a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) campaign for the elimination of lymphatic filariasis. The students were given Albendazole as part of the program. Authorities responded swiftly, dispatching a Quick Response Team (QRT) and an ambulance to the school.

All affected children were taken to a hospital, treated, and are now reported to be safe with no complications. Health officials stated that the illness is likely a side-effect of the Albendazole medicine. The MDA program has been ongoing in Bihar without previous incidents, according to the medical officer.

Key Points:

  • The incident occurred on February 25, 2026, in Ganpat Rai Tola, Athmalgola, Patna district, Bihar.
  • Students fell ill after consuming Albendazole during an MDA campaign for lymphatic filariasis elimination.
  • The illness is attributed to potential side-effects of the administered medicine.
  • A Quick Response Team and ambulance were deployed, and affected children were treated at a hospital.
  • The MDA program has been running in Bihar without prior reported issues.
  • Filariasis is a parasitic infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mass drug administration campaigns, while crucial for disease elimination, carry inherent risks of adverse reactions.
  • Prompt response and treatment are essential in mitigating the impact of adverse events during public health initiatives.
  • Continued monitoring and evaluation of drug safety are necessary to ensure the well-being of participants in MDA programs.
  • Public trust in health initiatives can be affected by such incidents, necessitating transparent communication and reassurance from health authorities.

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