Meghalaya: No fresh COVID cases detected in NEHU; online classes to continue 

SHILLONG: 

 

Authorities of the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), on Wednesday, informed that the COVID situation in the university is under control and reiterated that no fresh cases have been reported since the detection of four positive cases recently.

 

Speaking to TNT-The Northeast Today, the Registrar of NEHU, Dr JN Nayak, said that all safety measures were taken, and concerned buildings were sealed to prevent the spread of the virus.

 

“Soon after the detection, all the buildings were sealed, sanitised and closed for 48 hours as per the government’s protocols,” Dr Nayak said. 

 

Recently, four people from the same family, including a professor, were tested positive for COVID-19 after returning from Mumbai on March 13. 

 

The Medical Officer of the University, Dr BG Momin, said that the source of the infection is unknown, adding that the high-risk cases were immediately sent for testing. “The results came out negative,” he said.

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When asked whether online classes will continue given the situation, the Registrar said that for the time being, it is advisable to go for online classes, for the safety of all.

 

“Keeping in view the present situation, perhaps it is advisable to go for online classes. But we will assess the situation. Right now, because some cases have been detected, people are scared of coming to the campus. At this stage, we will continue with online classes,” Dr Nayak said. 

 

Similarly, the Dean of Student Welfare, Prof RL Nongkhlaw, informed that the authorities have put on hold the rejoining of scholars to hostels to complete the process of contact tracing.

 

“As of now, the number of scholars in the hostels is very less. Only 14 per cent of the total hostellers. The scholars, who are waiting to rejoin, are requested to be patient and to allow us to complete the contact tracing. It is for the safety of all concerned,” Prof Nongkhlaw said. 

 

Commenting on the safety measures taken by the university, NEHU Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof. H Lamin, ”We have provided all the facilities and are prepared to handle the situation, in case it (virus) spreads. We have identified and reserved the places and guest houses for this purpose.”

 

NEHU officials assured that COVID-19 protocols set by the central and state governments are strictly being followed by the university.