Is There a Rat Fever Scare in Tirunelveli? TN Health Dept Allows Bank Exam Under Strict Conditions
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Synopsis
In the face of a rat fever outbreak, the Tamil Nadu Health Department has permitted a bank recruitment exam to proceed in Tirunelveli, emphasizing strict hygiene protocols. This situation raises critical public health concerns as authorities work to contain the spread of leptospirosis among students. Read more about the health measures in place.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu Health Department has granted conditional approval for the bank exam.
- Affected students are receiving treatment and are stable.
- Contaminated water identified as a likely cause of the outbreak.
- Strict hygiene protocols are enforced for the exam.
- Public awareness efforts are underway to combat leptospirosis.
Chennai, Oct 11 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu Health Department has issued a conditional approval for a bank recruitment examination slated for October 12 at a private institution in Melathediyoor, Tirunelveli, amidst rising concerns over a new rat fever (leptospirosis) outbreak impacting students.
Earlier this week, a number of students from the college were admitted to the hospital displaying symptoms such as high fever and body aches, indicative of leptospirosis.
Medical tests validated the infection, prompting health officials to temporarily shut down the college and conduct inspections of the premises.
The affected students are receiving treatment at a nearby government hospital, with their condition being reported as stable.
During an inspection of the hostel, health teams identified contaminated water as a probable source of the outbreak. Officials collected samples of both water and food for further testing.
Subsequently, the Food Safety Department discovered significant hygiene violations in the hostel mess and two canteens on campus.
In light of the findings, the licenses of both canteens were suspended temporarily, and the college was directed to remain closed until adequate sanitation measures were implemented. After several days of cleaning and disinfection, a follow-up inspection was carried out.
Health Department officials confirmed that the areas designated for the bank recruitment exam had been thoroughly sanitized, ensuring that all classrooms, restrooms, and communal areas were disinfected.
Following this, the department granted conditional approval for the exam to proceed as planned, cautioning the management regarding strict adherence to hygiene protocols.
Meanwhile, public anxiety has intensified as Tirunelveli district has reported multiple cases of rat fever in recent weeks, particularly in rural schools and hostels.
Health authorities have initiated awareness campaigns, urging residents to maintain cleanliness, ensure safe drinking water, and promptly report any symptoms such as fever or jaundice.
Medical teams have escalated field inspections and distributed preventive medications in affected regions to mitigate the spread of the disease.
Point of View
It is crucial for the Tamil Nadu Health Department to balance public safety with educational needs. The conditional approval for the bank exam reflects a measured response to a health crisis. Vigilance and adherence to hygiene protocols will be key in preventing further spread of leptospirosis, ensuring the safety of students while allowing important examinations to proceed.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is rat fever?
Rat fever, also known as leptospirosis, is a bacterial infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including high fever, body aches, and jaundice. It is often transmitted through contaminated water.
What precautions are being taken for the bank exam?
The Tamil Nadu Health Department has mandated strict hygiene protocols and ensured that all exam venues are thoroughly sanitized before the event.
What should residents do to prevent leptospirosis?
Residents are encouraged to maintain cleanliness, secure safe drinking water, and report any symptoms of fever or jaundice to health authorities immediately.
Where are the affected students receiving treatment?
The affected students are currently being treated at a nearby government hospital, with their conditions reported as stable.
What led to the outbreak in Tirunelveli?
The outbreak in Tirunelveli has been linked to contaminated water sources, with inspections revealing significant hygiene lapses in local food facilities.
