Bhubaneswar: A rapid escalation in diarrhoea cases has jolted Odisha, prompting an urgent emergency meeting at Loka Seva Bhawan on Wednesday.
The outbreak, which originated in Jajpur district, has now affected several regions, resulting in over 2,000 reported infections and 11 fatalities.
A high-level central health team—comprising experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC), and the National Health Mission (NHM)—conducted ground assessments across affected zones.
Their findings indicated that the outbreak was primarily driven by contaminated water sources and inadequate sanitation measures.
In response, state authorities convened with the central experts to deliberate on immediate containment strategies.
The team recommended urgent upgrades to medical infrastructure, intensified water treatment, and a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate residents on hygiene practices.
The Odisha government has assured prompt action on these advisories, while the central team is expected to remain on-site for continued monitoring and support to curb further escalation.
