30 students of NIT Silchar found positive for tuberculosis TB

The students, alarmed by the spread of the disease, have taken matters into their own hands by advocating for online classes

Digital Desk: According to a report by Hindustan Times, thirty students at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Silchar, Assam, have been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB), triggering concern within the campus community. 

Dr Ratna Chakraborty, the tuberculosis officer for Cachar district, stated that a health department team rushed to the institute and conducted screening tests among 200 students, of whom 30 exhibited symptoms of TB. 

The outbreak appears to be particularly concentrated in hostels 6, 7, 8, and 9. Despite the urgency of the situation, authorities from NIT Silchar have not yet addressed the issue publicly, the Hindustan Times reports.

The students, alarmed by the spread of the disease, have taken matters into their own hands by advocating for online classes to prevent further transmission within the campus community.

The onset of the outbreak is believed to have been precipitated by a student from Bangladesh who returned to campus in February and was subsequently diagnosed with TB. Following his diagnosis, the student was isolated, and NIT Silchar authorities were urged to implement a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to contain the spread of the disease and ensure the safety of students. 

Despite these measures, the infection appears to be spreading rapidly, prompting further concern among students and health officials. The students have emphasised the need for swift action and proactive measures to mitigate the risk of further transmission within the campus premises.