TV
Three people have reportedly succumbed to a suspected outbreak of acute diarrhoeal illness in Dampur village under Gobindapur Panchayat of Sanakhemundi block in Ganjam district. Meanwhile, several others have fallen ill, while one critically affected woman has been shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Berhampur for treatment.
Sources reported that the deceased have been identified as Sambaru Mallick (64), Khandara Mallick (60), and a third person whose identity was yet to be officially confirmed at the time of filing this report.
All three victims reportedly exhibited symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea, commonly linked to water-borne infections like cholera-induced diarrhoea.
Medical Team Begins Ground Assessment
Following the incident, a medical team from the Sanakhemundi Block Health Office reached Dampur on Tuesday morning to assess the situation. Health officials initiated a door-to-door survey in the village to trace further infections and identify the possible source of the outbreak.
Doctors at the site are examining water sources, food supply practices, and overall hygiene conditions in the village.
“We have collected clinical and water samples. The cause of death and illness will be confirmed after laboratory results are analysed. We cannot say at this stage if this is a case of a large-scale diarrhoea outbreak. However, our teams are on alert and any possible contamination will be identified, if present,” a member of the medical team stated.
One Woman in Critical Condition
According to reports, the health condition of one woman deteriorated significantly. She was urgently referred to MKCG Medical College in Berhampur, where she is currently undergoing treatment. Her condition remains critical, and doctors are keeping her under close observation.
Community Concern and Health Response
The local administration has ramped up health surveillance in the village. ORS packets and basic antibiotics are being distributed to symptomatic individuals, while awareness is being raised on hygienic practices and the importance of using safe drinking water.
Villagers have expressed alarm over the poor condition of the water infrastructure in the area. Many allege that damaged pipelines and a lack of sanitation facilities have increased health risks, especially during the ongoing monsoon season.
As of the last reports, health authorities have deployed additional personnel to monitor the situation, with plans to scale up interventions if more cases are reported.
Preventive measures, including water purification, temporary medical camps, and sanitation drives, are being considered.
