Cusat shifts classes online amid surge in chickenpox cases

Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has halted in-person classes due to a spike in chickenpox cases. All departments on the Thrikkakara and Marine campuses have transitioned to online learning as reported instances of infected students have left the campuses. The university's decision to suspend physical classes came after directives from health authorities and requests from department heads.

Classes are expected to remain online until October 16. Two cases were initially reported in the Thrikkakara hostel block, but the number of cases has risen this week. Despite the situation, health authorities have assured that precautions are in place, and students who contracted the virus have been asked to leave the hostel and return home.

Scheduled examinations have also been postponed. Health officials noted that the district has seen 48 chickenpox cases this month, while the state has reported 589 cases. The statewide total stands at 31,318 cases, including nine deaths. The Kalamassery municipal chairperson, Jamal Manakadan, informed Cusat to implement necessary measures to curb the spread of the disease, including campus cleaning and spraying activities.