Jamshedpur: In a worrying development, 69 students of a residential school at Chakulia block of East Singhbhum district have tested positive for Covid-19. The school, which is located in a rural area, had been functioning normally until a few days ago, when the students started showing symptoms of the virus.
Nearly 69 students of Kasturba Gandhi Residential School in Chakulia block were detected Covid positive. All girls have been kept in isolation in the school premises.
On Monday, 46 girls from the school tested Covid positive. The state health department officials reached the school this morning and conducted RT-PCR tests for many others. After which, 23 girls were detected Covid positive.
According to the school authorities, the affected students have been isolated and are being provided with medical care. The school has also been closed for the time being to prevent further spread of the virus. Contact tracing is underway to identify any other individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
The district health department has initiated measures to contain the spread of the virus in the area. Mobile testing units have been deployed to screen residents for Covid-19. The local authorities have also issued an advisory urging people to follow Covid-19 protocols, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and avoiding large gatherings.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of students and staff at residential schools, which are often located in remote areas and have limited access to healthcare facilities. The authorities have been urged to take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of students and staff at such institutions.
The situation is being closely monitored by the district administration and the health department. Meanwhile, the affected students are undergoing treatment and are expected to recover soon.
Dr. Ranjit Kumar Murmu, the medical officer in charge of the Community Health Center said that the health department officials are keeping an eye on the health condition of the students as well as keeping a close watch to prevent the infection from spreading. Block Development Officer Devlal
Oraon and Circle Officer Jaywanti Devgam also visited the school today and interacted with the teachers. Along with inquiring about the health condition of the students, they took stock of the covid protocols that were being followed in the school.
The news of the outbreak has caused concern among parents and guardians of the students, who are demanding answers from the school administration about the safety measures in place. The school had recently reopened after a prolonged closure due to the pandemic, and parents are worried about the risks involved in sending their children to school.
The local health department has issued a statement urging people to take precautions and follow safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus. They have also advised parents to keep a close eye on their children and report any symptoms of Covid-19 immediately.