First jaundice death in Bolangir district

Bolangir: Despite all hue and cries over the spread of jaundice, the district today registered its first death with a patient losing his battle against the water-borne disease.

Sources said Rajendra Sahu of Chiminibhatipada village was suffering from jaundice for a few days. He was taken to VSS Institute of Medical Science and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla after his condition deteriorated. However, he breathed his last while undergoing treatment there.

Meanwhile, another person affected by the disease is said to be in serious condition, the sources added.

The spread of jaundice has assumed endemic proportions in the district with more than hundred persons being affected by it since the first case was reported 16 days ago.

Contaminated water is believed to be the major reason behind the outbreak as the pipeline used for supplying water to thousands of people is very close to drains at a few places. In addition, people take bath and wash clothes near the pump house located in Madhiapali village while Mahanadi water coming from Sonepur gets deposited there.

Residents here staged demonstrations in front of the public health office and the collectorate demanding quick action to curb the outbreak.

Opposition leaders have blamed the State government for its inability to take quick action and demanded immediate steps to check the outbreak at any cost so that no more life is lost.