Home / Health / VIT Bhopal: Jaundice Outbreak Sparks Student Safety Fears
VIT Bhopal: Jaundice Outbreak Sparks Student Safety Fears
8 Jan
Summary
- Dozens of students fell ill with jaundice and hepatitis, allegedly from poor food and water.
- Students reported persistent issues including water scarcity and inadequate infrastructure.
- Health officials confirmed E. coli contamination in drinking water affecting campus and nearby areas.

A significant outbreak of jaundice and hepatitis has affected numerous students at the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Bhopal campus, leading to protests and renewed concerns about student safety. Over 3,000 students initially protested in late November after at least 33 fell ill, with recent reports indicating new cases continue to emerge weekly. Students allege persistent problems such as water scarcity and inadequate infrastructure have plagued the campus for years.
Health officials have confirmed that E. coli contamination in the drinking water is linked to the outbreak, affecting both the campus and nearby communities. Medical experts clarified that many cases involve viral hepatitis, a serious liver inflammation spread through contaminated sources, with jaundice being a symptom. The nearest adequate medical facilities are located 15 km to 60 km away from the campus, raising further alarms among parents about the lack of on-site healthcare.


