There is an outbreak of glossitis disease in Tsenkharla Central School under Khamdang Gewog of Trashi Yangtse. In the last few days, 103 students were diagnosed with the disease which is an inflammation of the tongue. The condition causes the tongue to swell, change in colour, and develop a different appearance on the surface.
The outbreak was first detected on 27th January, when 25 students visited Khamdang hospital with tongue inflammation case on an outpatient basis. According to Dr Gosar Pemba, the Medical Superintendent of the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, glossitis is not very prevalent in the country. It is caused mainly due to Vitamin B deficiency in the body.
The investigation team from the Dzongkhag found that 98% of the infection is among boarding students. However, the team found the food nutrition level, sanitation and other facilities in the school satisfactory. The team is still investigating the cause of the outbreak.
For now, the Dzongkhag Team has created awareness on the importance of taking a balanced diet and provided vitamin supplements to all the students.
Sonam Darjay
