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As Odisha battles a worsening outbreak of diarrhea and cholera, the central team of experts identified contaminated water sources and poor sanitation as the primary cause and called for strengthening of medical infrastructure, improvement in water and sanitation.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Ten days after the outbreak which affected more than two thousand people and claimed 11 lives, the source or cause has been identified. At least 17 tested positive for cholera.

A high-level meeting was convened on Wednesday between the visiting Central health team and senior state government officials to review the emergency. The outbreak, which began in Jajpur district, has now spread to multiple districts, with over 2,200 people infected and at least 11 officially confirmed deaths, though unofficial estimates suggest the death toll may be as high as 21.

The Central team comprised of experts from ICMR, FSSAI, RMRC, and NHM. It conducted ground-level inspections in the worst-affected areas before presenting their findings.

Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Jajpur, Dr. Bijay Mishra, reported that 196 patients are currently under treatment, 37 new admissions were registered on Wednesday.

Responding to the situation, the Odisha government has intensified public health efforts like engaging 20 mobile medical teams, four expert task forces in severely affected blocks including Bhuban, Banki, Dharmasala, Badachana, and Bhandaripokhari across Dhenkanal, Cuttack, Jajpur, and Bhadrak.

The National Health Mission (NHM) has dispatched 40 mobile teams with 8 medical specialists in Jajpur alone, conducting 45 health camps.

Over 40 lakh halogen tablets, 6 lakh ORS packets, 3.4 lakh doxycycline tablets, and 400 packets of bleaching powder have been distributed to curb the spread.