In Andhra Pradesh, the Minister for Medical and Health and Family Welfare, Y Satya Kumar Yadav, stated concerns about a recent rise in diarrhea cases across 23 villages due to the monsoon season in Andhra Pradesh. As of now, 168 cases have been reported, prompting swift action from the government.
Minister Yadav, along with the officials from the Medical and Health and Revenue departments, visited Jaggaiahpet in NTR district to assess the situation firsthand. They spoke to the patients undergoing treatment for diarrhea at Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and discussed preventive measures with local officials from various departments.
During the visit, Minister Yadav revealed that 58 new diarrhea cases has been reported, with 14 patients already discharged after treatment. He highlighted that cases have also been identified in Kakinada, Guntur, and Jaggaiahpet since the start of the monsoon season. Y Satya Kumar Yadav assured that the government is actively working to contain the spread of the disease.
Suspecting contaminated water sources as a primary cause, Minister Yadav mentioned issues such as the misallocation of funds meant for water management and inadequate maintenance of water pipelines. He asked for the need for urgent action and mentioned that the state Cabinet would assemble to discuss further steps on Monday.
To mitigate the outbreak, the government has deployed ANMs (Auxiliary Nurse Midwives) and Asha workers to educate communities on preventive measures, focusing on personal hygiene. Regular water quality tests are being conducted at drinking water supply points every Wednesday, with over 30,000 samples already tested. Results have indicated low-level contamination at 217 points.
Minister Yadav underlined the collaborative effort between elected representatives and government officials to combat the outbreak effectively. He also warned of strict actions against officials found neglecting their duties in this critical situation.
The government’s proactive approach aims to reassure residents and mitigate the impact of diarrhea across the state, emphasizing both immediate response and long-term preventive measures to safeguard public health.
