Odisha Health Department Issues Advisory on Diarrhoea & Snakebite Risks Post-Floods

Bhubaneswar: In the aftermath of the recent floods, the Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department has issued a public advisory to prevent disease outbreaks and fatalities.

The department emphasised urgent precautions against diarrhoea and snakebites, two major health risks in flood‑hit areas.

For diarrhoea prevention, citizens are advised to drink only boiled or halogen‑treated water, wash hands thoroughly with soap, avoid open defecation, and refrain from consuming food from unhygienic sources.

Patients suffering from diarrhoea should be administered Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) repeatedly.

The advisory also highlights snakebite safety, urging people to remain cautious while moving in floodwater, use mosquito nets when sleeping on the floor, and maintain cleanliness around homes.

In case of snakebite, the department strictly warns against traditional remedies and stresses immediate hospital transfer.

Anti‑snake venom injections are available free of cost at government hospitals.

The Health Department has urged strict adherence to these guidelines to safeguard lives and prevent health crises in flood‑affected regions.