136 Students and Headmaster Affected by Mass Diarrhoea Outbreak at Rembang Junior High School

A total of 136 students at SMPN 5 Rembang have been affected by a mass diarrhoea outbreak, along with several teachers and the headmaster. The Head of the Junior High School Division at the Rembang Education, Youth, and Sports Office (Dindikpora), Ngadiono, confirmed the incident on Wednesday (5/8/2026).

According to the data received, seven teachers and four administrative staff also experienced similar symptoms, while the headmaster continued to work despite being unwell. Additionally, 94 students were absent from school due to illness. During the school day, a further 42 students developed diarrhoea and were treated in the school health unit (UKS) before being sent home.

Ngadiono stated that the exact cause of the outbreak is still under investigation. ‘The definitive cause is not yet known. Whether it is due to food from the Free Nutritious Meal programme (MBG), transmission, or other factors, we are still awaiting the investigation by the Health Office,’ he said. As of now, no similar cases have been reported from other schools in the district.