Concerns rise at NIT-Silchar in Assam amid TB outbreak

SILCHAR: Anxiety mounts at the National Institute of Technology (NIT)-Silchar in Assam as cases of Tuberculosis (TB) have emerged among students.

Eleven students from the NIT-Silchar in Assam have been diagnosed with TB, sparking alarm among the campus community.

The outbreak, occurring suddenly over the past two days, has predominantly affected students residing in hostels 9A, 9B and 9C of NIT-Silchar in Assam.

In response, the authorities at NIT-Silchar in Assam have implemented a standard operating procedure (SOP) to contain the spread of the contagious disease.

The SOP mandates the compulsory wearing of masks for all individuals present on campus, including students, staff, and visitors.

Also read: Assam: Guwahati CBSE Joint Secretary & Regional Officer LL Meena placed under suspension

WHAT IS TUBERCULOSIS (TB)?

Tuberculosis (TB) stems from an infection by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

While the lungs are commonly targeted, TB bacteria can invade various body parts, including the kidneys, spine and brain.

It’s crucial to note that not all individuals infected with TB bacteria develop symptoms of illness.

Consequently, two TB-related states emerge: latent TB infection (LTBI) and TB disease. If left untreated, TB disease can pose fatal risks.