Students Hospitalized with Viral Meningitis in Kochi: Symptoms and Response

KOCHI, India — Five young students from St. Paul’s International School in Kalamassery, aged 7 to 8, were diagnosed with viral meningitis and hospitalized on March 12, 2025. Their current condition is stable, and health authorities are on high alert, monitoring the situation closely.

According to Dr. Davidson Devasia, a pediatric neurologist at Aster Medcity, where two of the affected children are receiving treatment, viral meningitis is not uncommon among children. “The situation is not alarming,” he stated, noting that the virus generally resolves without severe complications. The affected children exhibited symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, mild fever, and sensitivity to light.

As a precautionary measure, the school has been closed for a week, and authorities have sent serum samples from the students to the National Virology Institute in Alappuzha for confirmation of the diagnosis. The principal of the school, Sunitha Binu Samuel, reported that one student first demonstrated symptoms, potentially leading to the spread among peers through close contact.

In response to this outbreak, health officials have collected water samples from the school premises and surrounding areas to identify the infection source. Additionally, the local health department is intensifying surveillance efforts in the school and nearby environments to prevent further spread of the virus.

The state education department is awaiting official reports from the district medical officer, as indicated by Honey G. Alexander, the deputy director of education for Ernakulam. Schools are closely monitoring students’ health and maintaining communication with parents to detect any additional cases early.

Viral meningitis is generally less severe than its bacterial counterpart, typically requiring supportive care rather than antibiotics, as the infection is often self-limiting. Nevertheless, early diagnosis remains critical to rule out bacterial meningitis, which can lead to serious complications.

Health experts highlight the importance of prevention through good hygiene practices. Frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces can help minimize the risk of transmission.

As concerns grow, health authorities are committed to ensuring the safety and health of all students and are taking necessary measures to manage this public health situation.