TV
The diarrhoea outbreak situation in Jajpur district remains grim as it is suspected that two persons lost their lives while over 500 have been affected till now.
The worst-hit areas include Dharamsala, Danagadi, and Korei blocks, where local hospitals are overwhelmed by the sudden spike in patients showing gastrointestinal symptoms.
District officials confirmed that over 100 patients are under treatment at the Jajpur District Headquarters Hospital alone, with more admitted across Korei, Dharamsala, and Danagadi medical facilities.
Eleven critically ill patients were shifted from Jajpur Road Medical to the district hospital and Cuttack SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack for advanced care.
Reports stated that the diarrhoea cases reportedly began two days ago, but the exact cause of the outbreak remains unconfirmed. In view of the escalated health crisis, a medical team from Bhubaneswar has been dispatched to investigate, alongside local health authorities.
Health Team At Ground Zero
Meanwhile, State Health Secretary Ashwathy S, stated that a medical team has already reached the affected site and submitted a preliminary report.
“A team of doctors, microbiologists, and food safety officers is currently investigating the cause behind the spread. An additional medical team is being dispatched to support treatment efforts, while public health officials are closely monitoring the situation,” he said.
The Health Secretary also added that discussions are underway with the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water departments, and directives have been issued to clean all drinking water sources in the area.
The actual number of casualties will be confirmed after the team submits its report.
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Dharamsala Sees Sharpest Surge
Dharamsala block continues to witness the highest number of cases. Nearly 150 patients have received treatment at the local Community Health Centre since Monday, with around 30 still undergoing care, said reports.
A state-level medical team has arrived in the district and is conducting house-to-house surveys in affected villages. Accompanied by ASHA and Anganwadi workers, the team is meeting with the families of patients and collecting water and stool samples to help determine the outbreak’s source.
District Collector P. Anwesha Reddy also visited the affected hospitals in Jajpur Road and Danagadi, reviewed medical preparedness, and appealed to the public to only consume boiled or disinfected water.
“An elderly patient has died, and we are awaiting the medical report to determine if it was diarrhoea-related. Residents must remain alert and maintain hygiene,” she stated.
The administration has intensified monitoring efforts and launched awareness drives across the affected blocks. Officials have assured that once the cause is confirmed, appropriate containment and preventive measures will be implemented.
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Meanwhile, a detailed report from the health department is expected soon after sample testing and field analysis conclude.
