Bhubaneswar, Feb 9: Panic gripped Kumusara village under Banki tehsil in Odisha’s Cuttack district on Monday after as many as 18 children fell ill allegedly due to consuming contaminated ice cream during a religious gathering. The incident occurred during the ongoing ‘Astaprahari’ festival, which had drawn a large number of villagers, including children.

According to reports, a local vendor was selling ice cream near the event venue. Several children purchased and consumed the frozen treat. Soon after, they began complaining of uneasiness, irritation in the mouth, and discomfort, triggering concern among parents and organisers.

Family members, with the help of locals, immediately rushed the affected children to the Banki sub-divisional hospital. Doctors promptly administered treatment, and all the children were later discharged after their condition stabilised.

Medical officials stated that the children suffered infection and inflammation of the tongue, likely caused by contaminated food. They were treated with B-complex supplements and curd, and doctors expect full recovery within six to twelve hours.

Meanwhile, villagers detained the vendor and alerted police. Ice-cream samples have been sent for laboratory analysis to determine the exact cause.

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