Jaundice outbreak in Shopian, three more test positive

Jaundice outbreak in Shopian, three more test positive

Locals demand potable water, screening process underway, says official

Jahangeer Ganaie

Srinagar, Feb 03 (KNO): Three more people have tested positive due to an outbreak of jaundice in Pahnoo and its adjoining areas of Shopian.

Block Medical Officer (BMO) Shopian Mohammad Yousuf told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that three more cases of jaundice have been reported in the nearby areas of Pahnoo. The total count has reached five.

He said teams have been dispatched to collect samples in all these villages where people have reported symptoms and the screening process has already been started.

“The people should not panic but consume boiled water and maintain proper hygiene,” the BMO advised.

Residents allege that the Jal Shakti Department’s failure to provide safe drinking water is the cause for the jaundice outbreak.

Locals claimed that doctors treating the affected children attributed the jaundice to contaminated water.

According to locals, numerous children have tested positive for jaundice. “Some are undergoing tests at private clinics and hospitals in other districts,” they said.

Expressing concern over the situation, the residents have urged authorities to address the “life-threatening” issue immediately.

“Fever and vomiting are common symptoms among children in the area. The authorities must immediately start mass screening in all nearby areas of Pahnoo village and provide us with potable water,” they said.

However, Jal Shakti officials said that water is being provided to the Pahoo and its adjoining areas after proper treatment.

The CMO Shopian has issued a circular and directed BMOs to constitute health teams to educate people about safe drinking practices and also screen the general public for waterborne disease.

“In view of the spondaic cases of Jaundice in District Shopian, it is circulated upon all the Block Medical Officer of District Shopian to constitute Health Teams who will educate the general people about safe drinking practices and also screen the general public for waterborne disease,” reads a circular, a copy of which lies with KNO.

“Furthermore the general population of District Shopian is advised through this Circular to follow the instructions of Health Teams visiting in your area and also report any such case of Jaundice to the nearest Health Centre,” it reads—(KNO)