Bhubaneswar: A suspected diarrhoea outbreak has reportedly claimed the lives of two persons and affected over 19 people in two villages of Ganjam district, prompting health authorities to intensify surveillance measures.
According to local reports, more than seven persons from Marthapur village under Sankhemundi block were admitted in critical condition to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Brahmapur. Two of them — Surendra Mallick and Sambaru Mallick — died while undergoing treatmentThe other patients afflicted with diarrhoea include Raghunath Mallick, Runi Mallick, Jaila Mallick and Ananta Mallick.
The illness has been reported in the village for the past four to five days. A team from the nearby community health centre has reached the village to create awareness, while the Health Department is investigating the possible cause.
Villagers suspect the illness may be linked to consumption of water from the village tubewell or a feast held about 15 days ago after the death of a person with similar symptoms. Health officials said the exact cause will be confirmed only after water samples are tested.
