Panic has gripped the Khandagiri area of Bhubaneswar after six students from Gandhi Vidyapeeth College exhibited symptoms of severe vomiting and diarrhoea.
Health officials suspect contaminated water to be the primary cause behind the outbreak.
According to preliminary reports, students began experiencing discomfort two days ago, prompting immediate medical intervention. In response, the health department swiftly established a temporary medical camp on campus to monitor and treat affected students. Officials have also initiated awareness programs for students and staff to prevent further spread of the infection.
Water samples from four different locations within the college have been collected for testing, and until the results are confirmed, students have been advised to consume only bottled or boiled water.
In the wake of the outbreak, the college management has taken action by disinfecting water supply systems and kitchen areas. If contamination is confirmed, stricter measures will follow, including the potential temporary closure of affected facilities.
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Mayor Sulochana Das addressed the concerns, stating that surveillance teams are investigating whether the cause stems from water or food contamination.
This marks the second diarrhoea outbreak in Bhubaneswar in a short span, raising serious concerns over the city’s drinking water quality in residential and educational institutions. Parents have urged authorities to take decisive action to prevent such recurring health threats.
The health department assures that a detailed report will be released soon, and further actions will be determined based on the test results. Meanwhile, residents are advised to remain cautious and follow hygiene protocols to avoid potential health risks.
