Keonjhar, Oct 10: A jaundice outbreak has gripped Khadibili village under Bail Panchayat of Anandpur Block, with over a dozen residents currently exhibiting symptoms. The disease has been spreading for the past two months, affecting people across all age groups — from children to the elderly.

Villagers report that new cases are emerging almost daily, despite some patients recovering after treatment at nearby health centres. The community suspects contaminated water as the primary source of the outbreak, pointing fingers at unsafe drinking water from local tubewells, wells, and ponds.

Despite repeated complaints to the local health department, villagers allege that no concrete measures have been taken so far. “The water sources in the village have not been disinfected, and no health camps or awareness drives have been conducted,” said a local resident. The inaction has led to growing frustration and concern within the community.

According to the ANM assigned to the village, medical treatment is being provided and several patients have recovered. However, the ANM also acknowledged that many residents have switched from tubewell to well water, which may have contributed to the continued spread of the disease. “We are trying to raise awareness, and disinfection of the wells in use has been initiated,” the ANM added.

Villagers are now urging authorities to take immediate action to contain the outbreak and ensure clean drinking water is made available to prevent further infections.

Tags: jaundice outbreak