Diarrhoea outbreak in Sanaur, 64 fall sick

Tribune News Service

Patiala, September 20

Another diarrhoea outbreak has raised questions over the preparedness of the District Health Department. With 64 cases of diarrhoea in Sanuar during the last four days the Health Department is in quandary.

A diarrhoea outbreak was reported in Sanaur on Monday when many people fell ill allegedly due to consumption of the contaminated water. As many as 17 cases of diarrhoea were reported on Monday while on Tuesday and Wednesday 19 and 23 patients, respectively, were found to be suffering from the disease. 

As soon as the information regarding contaminated water was received from Sanaur, a rapid response team from the Health Department, Patiala, reached the spot and took remedial measures, said district epidemiologist. 

“All necessary steps as per protocol are being taken to bring the situation under control,” said officials of the Health Department.

“The probable cause of the diarrhoea outbreak can be the mixing of sewage with drinking water due to the use of a hydraulic pump,” said residents.

As per the Health Department, the situation is under control in the area and there is no need to panic. “Only five cases of diarrhoea have been reported on Thursday. I am visiting the locality every day to keep a close watch on the situation. We have been able to stop the outbreak,” said Dr Gurmeet, district epidemiologist.

Five water samples fail purity test

Sanaur: All the five water samples collected from the affected areas have failed the test and found unfit for human consumption. The Health Department stopped the water supply in Sanaur on Monday. Now, water is being supplied through water tankers. The Health Department has also asked the Municipal Council to immediately clear water pipes and carry out repairs if there is any leakage. In fact, some connections have also been cut to stop the supply of contaminated water.