Koraput: A jaundice outbreak has triggered concern at the Rabadi Girls Sevashram in Kolnara block of Rayagada district, with more than 20 students reportedly testing positive for the disease. The incident comes soon after cases of malaria were reported among inmates of hostels under the district welfare department, raising concerns over health and sanitation conditions in residential institutions.According to sources, several students developed mild fever and yellowing of the eyes around three days ago. An ANM initially provided primary treatment, following which some of the affected students showed signs of improvement. However, subsequent tests confirmed jaundice in more than 20 girls on Wednesday evening.The affected students are currently being treated at the hostel instead of being shifted to a nearby health facility, prompting concern among parents. Some parents were reportedly seen taking their children home amid fears over the spread of the disease.Parents alleged that contaminated drinking water could be responsible for the outbreak and demanded immediate steps to identify the source of the infection and ensure safe drinking water at the hostel.More than 200 girls are staying at the residential institution run by SC and ST Development Department of the state govt. The development has also raised concerns about the possibility of the infection spreading among other inmates.District Welfare Officer (Rayagada) Ashima Rao said the affected students were being provided regular medical attention and that the department was closely monitoring the situation.“Regular medical care is being provided to the affected students and all necessary attention is being given to their health. The situation is being monitored closely, and we urge parents not to panic,” Rao said.According to Rao, the source of the contaminated water had been identified and students had been prohibited from using the tubewell.“Presently, the students are being provided safe drinking water from other sources, and RWSS department has been asked to dig a new tubewell,” she said.