What Caused the Diarrhoea Outbreak that Left Two Dead in Bihar's Darbhanga?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two fatalities reported due to the diarrhoea outbreak.
- Over 75 residents hospitalized, mostly children.
- Health officials are conducting door-to-door checks.
- Temporary medical camp established in the village.
- Authorities emphasize the importance of boiled or filtered water.
Patna, Sep 20 (NationPress) A severe diarrhoea outbreak in the village of Mohanpur, located in the Sadar block, has tragically resulted in two fatalities and has led to the hospitalization of over 75 individuals, predominantly children, amidst the current monsoon season.
The individuals who lost their lives have been identified as Deeplal Yadav and Laxmi Devi, both local residents of Mohanpur.
Those infected have been admitted to Darbhanga Sadar Hospital and Darbhanga Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) for urgent medical care.
Ranjana Devi, whose son is receiving treatment at DMCH, recounted the rapid spread of illness within her family. She shared, "Initially, one of my children exhibited symptoms of diarrhoea, and soon after, the entire family, including myself, started showing similar symptoms. We initially visited the primary health centre, but were then referred to DMCH for further treatment."
Dr. Arun Kumar, the Civil Surgeon of Darbhanga, has confirmed the outbreak of diarrhoea.
He stated, "We have implemented all necessary precautionary measures in the village and set up a temporary medical camp staffed with experienced doctors. Health teams are conducting thorough checks door-to-door and are distributing antibiotics, glucose, ORS, and other essential medicines to the villagers. The situation is being monitored closely by our medical professionals."
"Currently, over 75 individuals are hospitalized, with the majority experiencing only mild symptoms. Our specialists at DMCH and Sadar Hospital are keeping a vigilant watch over the situation," he added.
Health officials believe that contaminated water and inadequate sanitation may be contributing factors, which is a frequent concern during the monsoon season.
Authorities are advising residents to consume only boiled or filtered water and to report any symptoms immediately.
During the monsoon, the low-lying regions of Darbhanga often face flooding, leading to outbreaks of diarrhoea and other vector-borne diseases.
Officials have urged villagers to sanitize their homes and uphold hygiene standards, while the district administration has commenced the application of bleaching powder throughout the village to mitigate infections.
Additionally, health authorities have recommended that residents only drink boiled or filtered water, use ORS for diarrhea, and seek immediate medical help if symptoms arise.