Bhubaneswar, Nov 3 (UDN): Amid growing concerns over the health of students residing in its girls’ hostels, Utkal University has postponed its mid-semester examinations indefinitely following reports of diarrhoea and jaundice cases on the campus.
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The decision was taken after more than 10 students reportedly fell ill in Girls’ Hostels No. 6 and 7, with some requiring hospitalisation. The situation has caused considerable concern among students, particularly over the possibility of contaminated drinking water.
According to reports, two students staying in Hostel No. 7 were diagnosed with jaundice and admitted to hospital. However, the exact cause of the illnesses is yet to be established through laboratory investigations.
University Steps Up Health and Safety Measures
Taking note of the situation, the university issued a press release on November 2, assuring students that necessary steps were being taken to prevent further spread of illness and ensure their safety.
As part of the immediate response, the authorities have established a dedicated control room, pharmacy and public health facility. The university has also arranged a supply of 1,000 litres of drinking water for the affected hostels and advised students to drink boiled water.
In a precautionary move, the use of borewell water has been suspended, while cleaning and sanitisation of hostel water tanks have been initiated.
BMC Health Team Conducts Inspection
Meanwhile, a specialised team from the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) Urban Surveillance Unit visited the affected hostels to assess the situation and identify possible sources of infection.
The team included an epidemiologist, microbiologist, laboratory technician, food safety expert and communication specialist.
During the visit, officials collected water and blood samples for laboratory testing. Awareness programmes were also conducted to educate students about hand hygiene, safe drinking water, food safety and sanitation practices.
Examinations Suspended Until Further Notice
With students’ health emerging as the immediate priority, Utkal University has decided to keep the mid-semester examinations postponed until further notice.
A notification issued by the Chairman of the Postgraduate Council confirmed the decision. The university is coordinating with the State Health Department and monitoring developments on the campus.
Officials have indicated that a fresh decision on the examination schedule will depend on the prevailing health situation.
For now, the university’s focus remains on containing the outbreak, identifying the source of infection and ensuring a safe environment for students living on campus.