Eight children hospitalized with seizure-like symptoms following a concert near Harvard.

Eight children in the Chœur d’Enfants d’Île-de-France, a renowned French youth choir, were hospitalized after experiencing seizure-like symptoms during a performance at St. Paul Parish near Harvard University on Tuesday evening. The Cambridge Fire Department received an emergency call shortly after 7:30 PM, leading first responders to the scene to address what initially appeared to be a pressing medical emergency, according to local officials.

One of the young choir members reportedly suffered a seizure during the concert, prompting immediate medical attention. Upon arrival, firefighters found one child seated on the front steps of the church who was not actively seizing. However, the situation escalated as seven additional children subsequently displayed seizure-like symptoms. All eight affected individuals, aged between 11 and 13, were swiftly transported to local hospitals for further evaluation and care.

Investigation into the incident included a thorough assessment by the fire department’s hazardous materials team, which employed air sampling meters to confirm the safety of the environment. The results indicated that no hazardous conditions were present within the church building, allowing for ventilation and the reassurance that the space was safe for remaining attendees. Importantly, no members of the audience, which consisted of approximately 70 people, were reported to have been affected by the health crisis.

Officials noted that incidents of this nature are uncommon, and the unfolding situation necessitated what began as a routine medical response before escalating into a major event involving multiple hospital transports. According to the Cambridge Fire Department’s spokesperson, John Gelinas, all patients exhibited concerning symptoms that required urgent medical intervention.

The performance by Chœur d’Enfants d’Île-de-France was part of a larger U.S. tour in 2025, showcasing a varied repertoire that included sacred and secular pieces alongside popular French songs. The choir boasts a distinguished reputation in the world of youth music, having performed at notable concerts and festivals internationally. The concert at St. Paul Parish had been highly anticipated as a unique cultural offering for the local community.

As authorities continue to investigate the cause of the symptoms experienced by the children, the focus remains on their health and recovery. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges that can arise unexpectedly during public events, highlighting the importance of preparedness and rapid response in emergencies.