The cholera outbreak in Odisha’s Jajpur district continues to raise concern as the death toll rose to five. One more person succumbed to the disease on Friday, according to Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Prakash Chandra Bal.
Festival Holidays Cancelled Amid Rising Cases
In response to the growing number of cases, the Jajpur district administration cancelled the Raja festival holidays for government officials. The holidays, originally scheduled from June 14 to 16, were withdrawn to ensure an active government response during the crisis. “In view of the cholera outbreak in different parts of the district, all offices will remain open, and the services of employees will be utilised in case of exigency,” the district collector stated in an official order.
Fresh Cases Reported Across Multiple Locations
Fresh cholera cases have emerged from three different areas of the district. Public Health Director Dr. Nilakant Mishra confirmed that out of 41 stool samples tested, eight came back positive for cholera. Despite these numbers, Dr. Mishra assured that the situation remains under control due to heightened awareness, proactive field-level prevention, and prompt treatment.
Chief Secretary Orders Districts to Stay Vigilant
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja reviewed the outbreak on Friday and instructed neighbouring districts to remain alert. He directed health authorities to intensify efforts to prevent and control waterborne illnesses, especially after the arrival of the monsoon. Diseases like cholera, diarrhoea, jaundice, malaria, and dengue are being closely monitored.
Sanitation and Health Measures Intensified
Ahuja further directed officials to complete sanitation drives within ten days. He urged them to make all disease-prevention and control programmes more targeted and proactive. He instructed district officials to conduct door-to-door health surveys, increase hospital bed capacity, ensure timely treatment, and supply essential medicines and fluids.
Mobile Health Units Deployed for Awareness
Hindustan Times reported that authorities instructed the Health and Family Welfare Department to deploy mobile health units to spread awareness about waterborne diseases. These units will play a crucial role in reaching remote areas and educating residents about hygiene and disease prevention.
Over 750 Affected, But Recovery Numbers Rising
Officials reported that waterborne diseases have affected more than 750 people in the district over the last four days. Of these, hospitals are currently treating around 300 patients, while they have already discharged approximately 450 after successful treatment.
CDMO Confirms Gradual Improvement
CDMO Bal noted that the situation is showing signs of improvement. In the past three days alone, over 450 patients have returned home. On Friday, 20 new patients were admitted, and 30 critically ill individuals are currently being treated at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.