Forty-seven students from the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute's (BMCRI) girls’ hostel were admitted to Victoria Hospital in Bengaluru after showing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and severe gastroenteritis. Out of these, 28 were treated in the trauma care center, 13 in the H Block, and three in the intensive care unit (ICU).
While there are suspicions of a cholera outbreak among the 47 students brought to Victoria Hospital from the BMCRI girls' hostel, test results are required for confirmation. Although one student has seemed to test positive for cholera, definite stool culture test results are required to establish the diagnosis. The Karnataka Health Department emphasizes the significance of precise diagnosis and surveillance in managing cholera cases. In order to prevent the disease from spreading further, the situation must be continuously monitored and preventive measures implemented.
The medical superintendent of Victoria Hospital confirmed the admission of 47 students, all of them were diagnosed with severe gastroenteritis. Antibiotics and intravenous fluids were supplied immediately while further inquiry was underway.
Health officials expressed concern about the possible cholera epidemic, saying they are actively monitoring the situation and waiting for test results to be confirmed.
Students blamed their medical conditions on the hostel's poor sanitation and hygiene facilities. They accused hostel administrators of negligence, citing issues such as dirty washrooms, a lack of alternative drinking water sources, and poor sanitation standards.
Despite student complaints about sanitary concerns, such as a dirty environment and polluted drinking water, hostel management did nothing to address the issues.
While claims of a cholera outbreak circulated, the Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department confirmed that only a few cases had been identified, which did not constitute an outbreak. They alerted against unnecessary warnings and highlighted the value of hygiene and safe drinking water practices.
Inadequate access to safe water and poor sanitation facilities contribute to the spread of cholera, especially in areas with limited resources.
It spreads in areas with unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, and inadequate hygiene.
Drinking contaminated water or consuming contaminated food can lead to cholera infection.
Cholera is an acute diarrheal disease that may lead to severe dehydration and, if left untreated, fatal outcomes within hours. Identifying the symptoms and implementing preventive actions are critical for limiting their spread.
Diarrhea: Cholera-induced diarrhea often appears pale and milky and can be severe.
Fatigue and Weakness: Individuals affected by cholera may experience extreme tiredness and lethargy.
Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent feelings of nausea and frequent vomiting are common symptoms.
Dehydration: Cholera causes rapid fluid loss from the body, leading to dehydration.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Diarrhea and vomiting can cause electrolyte loss, which can interfere with normal body functions.
Low Blood Pressure: Severe cases of cholera can cause extremely low blood pressure.
Clean Safe Water: Access to clean and safe drinking water is essential to preventing cholera. Boiling water, using chlorine, or filtering water can help eliminate the cholera bacteria.
Hygienic Practices: Before eating fruits and vegetables, carefully wash them in clean water to avoid the chance of infection. Avoiding uncooked and unpeeled fruits and vegetables can also help prevent infection.
Avoiding Contaminated Foods: Consuming only thoroughly cooked and covered foods, especially seafood, can prevent cholera transmission.
Avoiding Uncovered Cut Fruits: Cut fruits exposed to the environment can become contaminated. It's best to avoid consuming such fruits.
Bottled Water: If tap water is suspected to be contaminated, using bottled water for drinking purposes can prevent infection.
Sanitation Measures: Maintaining proper sanitation facilities, including clean washrooms and regular cleaning of living spaces, can prevent the spread of cholera.
Prompt Medical Attention: Seeking medical attention at the first sign of cholera symptoms is crucial for timely treatment and preventing complications.
(Input from various resources)
(Rehash/Susmita Bhandary/MSM)