Srinagar, July 21: A team of health officials, under the direction of Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Director of Health Services Kashmir, visited Trail village in Block Sallar, Anantnag, following reports of a gastroenteritis outbreak on July 19, 2024.
The team, comprising Dr. Samina Gul (SSO, IDSP), Dr. Afshan Abdullah (State Epidemiologist, IDSP), and the District Rapid Response Team led by Dr. M.Y. Zagoo (CMO Anantnag) and Block Medical Officer Dr. Zahoor, conducted a thorough investigation. They reported 89 cases of mild to moderate gastroenteritis till July 20, 2024, with no fatalities. Three water samples and three stool samples have been sent to DPHL Anantnag for analysis, with results pending.
To manage the outbreak, the team conducted Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities and public announcements in the affected area, advised villagers to drink boiled water, distributed Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) packets to affected individuals, and conducted door-to-door visits to identify new cases.
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Local health teams have been instructed to maintain close surveillance and report any new developments promptly. The health department assures the public that the situation is under control and is being closely monitored.
