TV
More than 40 people got infected with jaundice in Dandasahi village under Biridi block of Jagatsinghpur district over the past five days. With no access to clean drinking water in the area, villagers are reportedly forced to rely on three to four tubewells, which are suspected to be contaminated.
One villager said, “The tubewells in the village are contaminated, and when people began falling ill after using them, we started fetching water from another area that’s a little farther from here.”
Villagers Seek Treatment From 'Witch-Doctor' Despite Medical Support
New cases of fever are still being reported daily. "Over 40 people are infected, and new cases are being reported every day. People from our village are going to Salepur for treatment. Some are even visiting a 'witch-doctor' for care. Although the medical team has arrived, collected water samples for testing, and distributed medicines, people are still falling ill,” said another villager.
Awareness Campaign Launched, Tubewells Being Cleaned
In response, the local administration has launched an awareness campaign to inform villagers about preventive measures. Health workers, along with Anganwadi and ASHA workers, are conducting door-to-door visits to spread awareness. The available tubewells in the village are also being thoroughly cleaned.
However, despite these efforts, many villagers continue to believe in and seek treatment from a 'witch-doctor'.
Health Department Issues Preventive Guidelines
Health Supervisor said, “We got to know about the jaundice on July 26. Since then, we have taken several steps to make people aware of how the spread can be prevented. We have advised them to wash hands before eating, practise cleanliness, boil water before drinking, and use toilets instead of defecating in the open.”
