Regular classes at the School of Engineering (SoE), Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) have been shifted to the online mode temporarily after four cases of chickenpox were reported from a hostel block over the past few days.

As a precautionary measures, all classes have been shifted online for five to six days. A decision on resuming the classes offline will be taken after carrying out an assessment of the situation in consultation with the health department, senior university officials said on Monday (October 5, 2026).

The inmates of the hostel have been advised to vacate their premises to prevent further spread. There is no scare as all required precautionary measures have been initiated as per the protocol prescribed by the health authorities, they said.

The inmates in other hostels and students in various departments have been asked to wear masks as a pre-emptive measure as chickenpox is an air-borne, communicable disease. They have also been told to ensure hand hygiene to check the spread.