Bhubaneswar: In response to the recent diarrhoea outbreak in several parts of Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday chaired a comprehensive review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan to assess containment measures and the current status across six affected districts. Officials reported a significant drop in new infections, indicating that the situation is now largely under control.
The outbreak, which had affected districts such as Jajpur, Bhadrak, Cuttack, Kendrapara, Dhenkanal, and Keonjhar, is showing a steady decline in reported cases. “Thanks to the coordinated response of multiple departments, we’ve managed to arrest the spread of the disease and restore stability in affected areas,” said the Chief Minister. He stressed the need for continued vigilance and directed health authorities to ensure smooth delivery of medical services from primary health centers to tertiary hospitals.
While normalcy is returning in many areas, the Chief Minister instructed officials to step up preventive efforts in vulnerable zones that have not yet seen infections. With Durga Puja approaching, he called for heightened preparedness to avoid any resurgence during the festive season.
During the meeting, it was revealed that schools and colleges are being instructed to enforce stringent hygiene protocols, and water purification measures are already in place across educational institutions. CM Majhi also highlighted the importance of food safety, directing local authorities to inspect street food vendors and ensure cleanliness in public eating zones. He further urged the purification of tube wells and systematic testing of drinking water in rural and semi-urban areas.
Health department data presented in the meeting showed that 3,892 individuals have been affected since the outbreak began, with 3,543 recoveries and 254 patients still under treatment. Officials assured that medical interventions and outreach efforts remain robust.
Public awareness campaigns led by the Health and Mission Shakti departments continue to play a vital role in the response. SHG members, ASHAs, and Anganwadi workers are visiting households to educate families on diarrhoea prevention and hygiene practices. IEC campaigns are being carried out through multiple platforms to keep citizens informed and alert.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Health Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and top officials from key departments including Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water, Housing and Urban Development, Women and Child Protection, and School & Mass Education were present at the review. The Chief Minister concluded by urging all departments to maintain synergy and ensure that the state remains ahead of any future public health risks.