Classes go online after viral outbreak at Plaksha University, Mohali
A viral outbreak that struck last Saturday has forced a top technology and research university in Chandigarh tricity to go online.
The management of Plaksha University, Mohali, an upcoming varsity in the region, on Friday confirmed to The Tribune that around 40 students had reported viral symptoms in a matter of few days, causing the institute to suspend physical classes to break the chain of transmission.
Few students who took ill have also tested Covid-19 positive.
Speaking to The Tribune, Plaksha University's Nina Mehta said, “Some 40 odd students were reported to be having a cold, cough and fever on the Plaksha campus over the last few days. We have taken immediate cognizance and ensured all adequate measures to address the issue. To break the chain and minimize contact classes are being held online since Wednesday.”
Asked when physical classes would resume, Mehta said the university was planning to restart offline classes beginning Monday as fresh cases were tapering down.
Some of the students who took severely ill and with whom The Tribune spoke maintained that many more than 40 were feared hit by the viral fever.
Plaksha management has however confirmed that 40 students reported to the varsity's medical room with sickness and were assisted adequately.
“No student has been isolated so far. Students can avail RTPCR tests on the campus and they have been also given the provision of going home should they wish to.
Only two instances of cold have been reported in the past two days. Things are very much in control and we continue to monitor the situation closely. Health and wellbeing of our students is our priority,” the varsity said in a statement.
Many of the students who fell ill have gone home to cities across India and are still recovering. This Tribune correspondent spoke to at least four who are recovering from severe viral symptoms in New Delhi.
The university also said space had been designated for isolation on the campus if required.
About Plaksha
Eminent business leaders, tech entrepreneurs and academicians are a part of Plaksha university which came up in 2021. The rapidly growing university seeks to change the landscape of engineering and technology education in India and the world. The university currently has 500 students and around 40 faculties.
