Odisha Health Dept Confirms Cholera in Jajpur, Monitors Statewide Outbreak

By A Staff Reporter

Bhubaneswar, Odisha | Amid rising concerns over diarrhoea and suspected cholera cases during the monsoon season, the Odisha government has confirmed that cholera has been detected in Jajpur district, while other districts remain unaffected so far. Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, Aswathy S, addressed the situation in a detailed media briefing, assuring the public that the outbreak is being closely monitored and contained.

"Every reported cholera or diarrhoea death is being audited by a team of doctors," said Aswathy, adding, "The outbreak hasn't spread to Puri. The cholera test has been found positive in Jajpur, not in other districts yet."

She noted that the state has seen around 300 new inpatient admissions due to diarrhoea-related symptoms, a figure consistent with the previous day. “The good thing is we are seeing only mild cases, which indicates that people are seeking treatment early and not waiting for their condition to worsen,” she said.

To ensure effective care, hospitals have been instructed not to discharge even minor cases for at least 24 hours. So far, 10 diarrhoea-related deaths have been audited, with three found unrelated to the outbreak. Two more cases are currently under review.

Aswathy emphasized that sporadic diarrhoeal cases are common across Odisha during the monsoon, but preventive measures have been ramped up, particularly in vulnerable areas. Extra health officers have been deployed to Puri district to monitor and test water sources for contamination.

The Health Department continues to urge citizens to maintain hygiene, drink only clean or boiled water, and report symptoms early. With the state's proactive stance, health officials remain confident that the outbreak can be contained and managed effectively.