BARISAL: At least 35 students were affected by mass hysteria at Nalchira High School in Gaurnadi upazila of the district on Thursday noon.

Headmaster of the school M Nurul Islam told banglanews that suddenly the students of class VII and Class VIII were affected by hysteria around 11:00am.

Till noon, at least 35 students were infected by the decease, he added.

Of the sick students, 20 were taken to Ashokathi Upazila Health Complex.

However, the authorities immediately declared the school shut down activities for the day.

Dr M Zainul Abedin of Ashokathi Health Complex told banglanews that though it is a sign of hysteria but “we can call it Mass hysteria”.

He also assured that there is no reason to be fearful.

BDST: 1810 HRS, SEP 11, 2014