Odisha Alerts Districts Over Cholera Outbreak, 11 Dead So Far
The Odisha government has sounded an alert across all 30 districts after a cholera outbreak, which began on June 9 in Jajpur, has claimed 11 lives and infected over 2,000 people across coastal regions. The outbreak has spread to Dhenkanal, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, and Cuttack, prompting the administration to take urgent measures to contain the spread of the disease.
According to reports, 10% of the samples tested positive for the vibrio cholerae virus, which is the primary cause of cholera. The outbreak has raised concerns about the water quality in the affected areas, with health teams working overtime to disinfect water sources and distribute ORS (oral rehydration solution) packets to affected families.
The Odisha government has activated its disaster management plan to tackle the outbreak, with teams of health professionals, sanitation workers, and other officials working together to contain the spread of the disease. The administration has also set up medical camps in the affected areas to provide treatment to those infected.
The outbreak is believed to have begun in Jajpur, where the first cases were reported on June 9. Since then, it has spread to other districts, including Dhenkanal, Bhadrak, Keonjhar, and Cuttack. The coastal regions of Odisha are particularly vulnerable to waterborne diseases, and the outbreak is seen as a wake-up call for the government to improve the water quality and sanitation infrastructure in these areas.
The Odisha government has also appealed to the public to maintain good hygiene practices, including washing hands regularly, using clean water for drinking and cooking, and avoiding contaminated food and water. The administration has also advised people to avoid consuming raw or undercooked seafood, which is a common source of cholera infection.
The outbreak has also led to a shortage of ORS packets in the affected areas, with many pharmacies and medical stores running out of stock. The Odisha government has stepped in to supply the required number of ORS packets to the affected areas, and has also set up a helpline for people to report any cases of cholera or seek medical advice.
The Odisha government has also sought the assistance of the central government to tackle the outbreak. The central government has promised to provide necessary support and resources to help the state contain the spread of the disease.
The outbreak has also led to a sense of fear and anxiety among the public, with many people avoiding crowded areas and public places. The administration has assured the public that it is working tirelessly to contain the spread of the disease, and has appealed to people to remain calm and follow the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of cholera.
In conclusion, the Odisha government’s alert over the cholera outbreak is a wake-up call for the administration to take urgent measures to improve the water quality and sanitation infrastructure in the coastal regions of the state. The outbreak is a reminder of the importance of good hygiene practices, and the need for the public to take responsibility for their own health and well-being.
