Test reports of Srigufwara water samples awaited
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, July 24: While the test reports for the water samples taken from Srigufwara villages following a gastroenteritis outbreak are still awaited, the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir (DHSK), has today directed an extensive awareness campaign across Kashmir in response to the outbreak reported in “certain areas”.
Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Director of Health Services Kashmir, has issued directives to Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents and Block Medical Officers to educate the public on essential Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to curb the spread of the disease.
In this regard, the DHSK issued a circular stating that one of the primary preventive measures is the use of boiled water for drinking and cooking to ensure safety from waterborne pathogens.
“Maintaining proper hand hygiene using soap and disinfectants is crucial, particularly after using the bathroom and before handling food,” the circular said.
The public has also been advised to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of gastroenteritis and to report any symptoms immediately to the nearest health facility.
The campaign places special emphasis on the health and hygiene of children, with the DHSK stressing frequent handwashing and close monitoring for early detection of symptoms.
Additionally, it is recommended to keep children, the elderly and individuals with comorbidities away from those infected to reduce their risk of exposure.
To further prevent the spread of the disease, DHSK urged the public to avoid consuming raw vegetables, salads, and street foods, and to thoroughly wash fruits before eating them.
“Staying hydrated and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours are also advised to help maintain overall health during the outbreak,” the circular added.
The campaign will utilize various communication channels, including miking, door-to-door visits, posters, pamphlets, and social media, to ensure widespread dissemination of information.
It is to be noted that earlier, starting from night of July 19-20 till next few days, over 183 cases of gastroenteritis were reported from various villages in Anantnag district’s Srigufwara.
Following this, the Health Department and the PHE collected several water samples to ascertain the source of infection.
Additionally, the Health Department collected stool samples and sent them to the District Public Health Laboratory (DPHL) in Anantnag for further analysis.
Officials told Excelsior that while no fresh cases have been reported from the villages, the reports are yet to be received, adding that the analysis of the water samples is being conducted jointly by the Health Department and the PHE.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
