In the past two days, over 140 diarrhoea cases have been reported from Gurla village in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, sparking health concerns. While four people were suspected to have died, district officials clarified that these fatalities were not directly caused by diarrhoea, but by other underlying health conditions.
Vizianagaram District Collector B.R. Ambedkar stated that although diarrhoea is prevalent in the village due to water contamination, the deaths were attributed to conditions such as septic shock, chronic kidney disease, cardiac arrest, and asthma exacerbations, as per a report on PTI. However, some suggested that these co-morbidities may have worsened due to diarrhoea, contributing to the deaths.
According to the district’s medical officer, 82 individuals fell ill from diarrhoea on Tuesday, with many receiving treatment and returning home. However, this led to further spread of the disease among family members, as an additional 42 cases were reported on Wednesday. All affected individuals are currently in stable condition, according to the authorities.
CM Naidu Seeks Report on Outbreak
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu expressed his condolences over the reported deaths and requested a detailed report on the diarrhoea outbreak and the current measures being taken to prevent further spread.
The situation in Vizianagaram is being closely monitored, and efforts are underway to ensure the safety and health of the affected population.
In response to the outbreak, district officials initiated an intensive sanitation drive, targeting both public areas and the homes of affected individuals. Collector Ambedkar emphasised the contagious nature of diarrhoea, particularly when common washrooms are used and directed medical personnel not to discharge patients until full recovery is ensured.
The district administration also shut down five private borewells suspected to have caused water contamination. Water samples from across the village are being collected for analysis and households are now receiving chlorinated water as a precautionary measure.
