RSCM: Condition of Karo Students Poisoned by Free Nutritious Meal Program Continises to Improve
The condition of one of the two students from Karo Regency, North Sumatra, who suffered poisoning after consuming the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) and was referred to Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) Jakarta, continues to show positive development. The patient is reported to have entered the recovery phase and is expected to undergo outpatient treatment in the near future.
Dr Henny Adriani Puspitasari, a Paediatric Specialist and Nephrology Subspecialist and graduate of FKUI, stated that the patient’s general condition is now very good, including kidney function which had previously experienced impairment.
“The second child (one of the patients) is actually in a near-perfect recovery phase because all conditions are very good, and kidney function is also good. We estimate we will discharge the patient by the end of this week,” Henny said during a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday (16/9).
Henny explained that upon initial admission to RSCM, the patient was diagnosed with acute kidney injury. Re-evaluations showed this condition, prompting the medical team to provide therapy and conduct regular monitoring. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted by the RSCM team through interviews, physical examinations, laboratory tests, and ultrasonography. From this series of examinations, it was determined that the patient’s kidney function has entered the recovery phase.
“We have conducted regular evaluations and kidney function is now normal. Currently, the second child is also able to be independent, can stand, walk, and perform independent activities, and we are preparing the child to receive follow-up monitoring in coordination with the local team,” she added.
In addition to physical health, the medical team also examined the patient’s psychological condition. From clinical examinations, the patient’s psychological state was deemed quite stable. Kusuma Minayati, a Psychiatrist and Subspecialist in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at RSCM, stated that the team hopes the patient can return to daily activities optimally after undergoing outpatient care. She noted that preparations for returning to activity must involve the family to ensure a smooth recovery process.
“It has been planned for outpatient care within the next few days, so from the psychiatry side, we support the preparation of the patient and their family to return to their active daily activities within the community,” she explained.
Meanwhile, the Medical and Nursing Director of RSCM, Dr Renan Sukmawan, stated that the two students referred from North Sumatra arrived at RSCM on Saturday, 12 September 2026. According to Renan, both patients did not arrive in a condition requiring intensive care; both were subsequently treated in regular wards.
Patients were also able to communicate and maintain good contact during their treatment. After several days of medical handling, both are now reported to be in much better condition. The patients are also planned to undergo outpatient care as soon as medical conditions permit.
“So that our children can return to school quickly. I feel this is school season, and I believe it is our duty at RSCM to provide the best possible care and everything required, including preparations for outpatient care,” he concluded.