Utkal University Launches Mass Health Screening After Jaundice Outbreak, 12 Students Test Positive
Bhubaneswar, Nov 5 (UDN): In the wake of a jaundice outbreak on its campus, Utkal University has stepped up preventive healthcare measures by conducting a mass health screening of nearly 400 female students residing in Hostel No. 6 and Hostel No. 7.
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The screening drive was conducted on Wednesday by a team of three healthcare professionals, who examined students for symptoms associated with jaundice and checked their blood pressure. According to university officials, 12 students have tested positive for the disease so far.
As part of the next phase of the exercise, authorities will prepare a list of students showing symptoms and collect their blood samples for further medical investigations.
The university has also initiated measures to address potential contamination of drinking water, which is suspected to be a possible source of the outbreak. The borewell water supply has been discontinued as a precautionary measure, Vice-Chancellor Chandi Prasad Nanda said.
Additionally, water tanks across all 12 university hostels have been cleaned and chlorinated to ensure a safe drinking water supply for students. The administration has also made arrangements to provide safe drinking water to the two affected girls’ hostels.
In a positive development, no fresh jaundice cases have been reported on campus since Tuesday. The two students who had earlier been hospitalised have also been discharged and are recovering. Other students who tested positive are currently staying in their respective hostels and undergoing medication.
The university administration said the screening initiative is aimed at identifying suspected cases at an early stage, preventing further transmission and ensuring the health and safety of students.
With the situation being closely monitored, the authorities are continuing their efforts to contain the outbreak and restore confidence among students and hostel residents.