Suspected dengue outbreak at Srilankan Tamils rehabilitation camp in Tenkasi
A suspected dengue outbreak at a Sri Lankan Tamil rehabilitation camp in Tenkasi has led to a death and dozens of illnesses. Local authorities are conducting cleaning operations and medical camps, though they dispute the official classification of the outbreak.
Why it matters
It highlights the precarious living conditions in refugee rehabilitation camps and the ongoing public health challenges in managing sanitation for vulnerable populations.
Following a suspected dengue outbreak, a mass cleaning operation and medical camp are being organised at Boganallur Srilankan Tamils rehabilitation camp near Kadayanallur in the district.
The 35-year-old Boganallur camp has over 150 families, who live in houses built for them by the Tamil Nadu Government. Ever since a mysterious fever broke out in the camp in mid-July, more than 50 inmates have been affected. While undergoing treatment in Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital, 13-year-old R. Rehana Mary, a Class 8 student, died a month ago. D. Nirmala, 27, another inmate of the camp, is undergoing treatment at the same hospital.
A medical camp being held at the Sri Lankan Tamils rehabilitation camp at Boganallur in Tenkasi district. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
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