GMC Jammu in a state of panic after students show Hepatitis symptoms

J&K: GMC Jammu is in a state of panic with 20 UG and PG medical students reported ill. More than 20 students in the hostel carry symptoms of Hepatitis.

Sources have confirmed that students complained of abdomen pain, pain in muscles and joints, and other symptoms of Hepatitis A and E. Some of the other symptoms are yellowing of skin, appetite loss, fever, and vomiting. They further implied that students blame the situation on contaminated and unhygienic water in the hostel.

It is also reported there trainee doctors are on leave because of the fearing conditions. Some of them are under treatment at the medical college hospital.

A student in his statement implied that they are compelled to drink unhygienic water, even though they had brought the issue to the notice of the administration. However, it took no action even to test the quality of water. He further alleged that they had made a telephonic contact with the principal, hostel warden; still, there is no reported action on the matter.

Dr. Mritunjay Gupta, Warden UG Boys Hostel, when contacted said to a local newspaper that, “Officially no student has complained about the problem. As far as the water supply is concerned, there is nothing to panic as same water is being supplied to other doctors of the hospital. Even I am drinking the same water”.

He further said that today a team of hospital administration, led by Administrator, Babila Rakwal paid a special visit to the hostel to listen to the grievances of the students.

Dr Gupta in addition implied that water has been sent to the laboratory for testing now. Only after the report, if there is contamination in water, they will take up the matter further with PHE authorities. Also, four water purifiers have been installed in the hostel and more will be installed soon. Also, students who have to incur expense on their treatment will be reimbursed by the college administration.