45 NC middle school students become ill for unknown reason

Officials are still trying to determine why the students fell ill Monday afternoon, although investigators are looking into possible food poisoning, WXII reports.

Sixth graders began complaining about feeling nauseous with headaches. Some students had thrown up.

Only sixth graders were affected, according to the Yadkin County Schools superintendent.

In response to the mysterious epidemic, the school did a shelter in place to keep unaffected students away from the others that were ill.

"I understand parents were nervous and upset. No messaging went out [from the school] because I can tell you, I saw first hand, administration and front office staff were focused on helping students. That's first priority," Yadkin County Schools Superintendent Todd Martin said.

First responders came to the school to help and check the students out.

Yadkin County Schools and the Yadkin County Health Department are investigating the strange illness that affected the 45 students.