Hostels reopen in city after food poisoning incident

Mangaluru: City Group of Institutions has reopened its hostels after obtaining permission from the health department, almost 12 days since the incident of food poisoning was reported.
It may be recalled that as many as 231 students from three hostels allegedly suffered food poisoning on February 6 and 7. They were treated in about seven hospitals in the city.
The principal of City College of Nursing Shanti Lobo told TOI that the hostels were reopened on Saturday evening. Water contamination is suspected to be the reason for food poisoning.
All water storage facilities, sumps, and tanks have been cleaned, and wells have been chlorinated. Existing water filters were serviced and an additional five filters have been installed. As directed by the health authorities, all measures have been taken.
A meeting with the parents of students who have exams this week was held and parents were briefed about the measures taken. The hostel has been reopened for those who have exams. The rest of the students will report on Wednesday, she said.
According to a circular, students staying in the girls’ hostel and appearing for the RGUHS examination scheduled for February 22, can report to the hostel from February 19. Other batches of students can report to the hostel on February 22. Regular classes will begin on February 23.
Permission to reopen the hostels was given after District surveillance officer Dr Jagadeesh along with the principal of the district training institute Dr Ashok H inspected the premises.
“Only after holding an inspection and getting water samples tested were the hostels allowed to reopen. The hostels have been told to take all necessary measures and ensure that such an incident is not reported again. All water sources have been cleaned. However, reports of the food samples are awaited,” Dr Jagadeesh said.