Bhubaneswar: A team of the Health Department, led by the Health Director and Khurda CDMO, visited the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in Khurda district’s Gurujang and collected blood samples of the students and a water sample for examination after a jaundice outbreak among the students.
The health team also inspected the hygiene and water supply system. They advised the school authorities to intensify the cleanliness drive.
“We reached the school after being informed by the school authorities. We collected blood samples and a water sample for examination. We also inspected the dining, kitchen area, and administrative building. We have also discussed with the school officials regarding the cleanliness of water tanks,” Ranjan Mitra, Health official said.
Guardians visiting their kids also bring outside food. Students also consume outside food from vendors near the school campus; they should refrain from taking all these junk foods, he added.
Over 30 blood samples were collected from the students and sent for examination. Earlier, 25 students tested positive for jaundice. They were sent home after preliminary treatment. Test reports of another 100 students who are suffering from fever and were sent home are awaited.
A week ago, some students started complaining of ill health. Subsequent health screening pointed to a jaundice outbreak.
“Some students went home ahead of New Year and, after they returned to the campus, many complained of cold, fever, and jaundice-like symptoms. After initial medical treatment, they were sent to their homes, where they tested positive for jaundice,” school authorities said.
Water contamination is suspected to be behind the outbreak, though the exact reason is yet to be discovered.
