Bhubaneswar, Nov 3: Utkal University has postponed its mid-semester examinations indefinitely amid reports of a diarrhoea outbreak and jaundice cases among students residing in Girls' Hostels No. 6 and 7.

The decision comes after more than 10 students reportedly fell ill, with some requiring hospitalisation. Two students from Hostel No. 7 were diagnosed with jaundice and admitted to hospital, according to reports on November 3.

The health concerns have triggered anxiety among hostel residents, with suspected contamination of drinking water emerging as a major concern. However, the cause of the illnesses is yet to be officially established.

The university issued a press release on November 2, stating that it had taken the situation seriously and introduced immediate precautionary measures to safeguard students' health.

These include setting up a dedicated control room, pharmacy and public health facility, besides supplying 1,000 litres of drinking water to the hostels. Students have also been advised to consume boiled water.

A team from the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Urban Surveillance Unit, comprising an epidemiologist, microbiologist, laboratory technician, food safety expert and communication specialist, visited the affected hostels.

The team collected water and blood samples for laboratory testing and conducted awareness programmes on hand hygiene, safe drinking water and food sanitation.

Meanwhile, the university has suspended the use of borewell water and initiated the cleaning of hostel water tanks as precautionary measures.

Amid the growing health concerns, the university has decided to keep the mid-semester examinations suspended until further notice. A notification issued by the Chairman of the PG Council confirmed the postponement.

The university said it is coordinating with the Health Department and closely monitoring the situation. Further decisions regarding the examinations will be taken based on the prevailing circumstances.