JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Over two dozen students were treated for bug bites after a routine classroom trip to the school playground at BridgePrep Academy of Duval on Monday
The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department says around 1 p.m., a 4th grade class was out on the playground when the students started complaining to their teacher about itching.
JFRD says units were called to treat the 27 students.
The symptoms escalated into localized areas of swelling on the arms and legs but had no impact on bodily functions, JFRD says.
In total, one adult and 27 children were treated for bites.
JFRD says at this time it's unknown what kind of bug produced the bites, but the school is looking into it.
The parents of all the children refused transport to the hospital and the adult was also not transported.
Full statement from school:
On April 24, 2023, at approximately 1:00 pm, multiple students reported
having bug bites after playing outside. BridgePrep staff examined the bug bites and investigated the situation.
Medical services were called to ensure student health and safety.
No students were transferred for additional medical attention, and all were released to their families.
At BridgePrep Academy, the health and safety of our students are our priority. All outdoor activities at BridgePrep Academy of Duval will be temporarily replaced with indoor activities while we collaborate with the department of health and pest control professionals to identify and address the cause of the incident.