Bhubaneswar, June 17: A sudden outbreak of diarrhoea has hit Cuttack district, leaving 64 people infected and claiming one life. The majority of the patients—55 in total—are undergoing treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital, while nine are being treated at City Hospital, Cuttack.
In response to the escalating situation, the District administration has ordered the closure of all schools and colleges in the district until June 20 as a preventive step.
Dr. Tapan Kumar Mishra, Senior Medicine Consultant at City Hospital, raised concerns about patients abandoning treatment prematurely. “Many arrive in the morning with symptoms such as abdominal pain and vomiting. But after just a day or two of saline and basic care, they leave the hospital without informing our staff. This is alarming,” he said.
Dr. Mishra emphasized that incomplete treatment can lead to recurring infections. “Stopping treatment midway hampers full recovery and increases the risk of reinfection. Patients must be counselled to complete the full course of care,” he stressed.
City Hospital has allocated 20 dedicated beds for diarrhoea patients, with five more on standby for emergencies. Dr. Mishra also advised the public to strictly avoid all types of street food during this critical period.
Meanwhile, the state health authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Odisha's Director of Public Health, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, noted that a similar surge in diarrhoea cases has been observed in Jajpur district, where over 200 people have been affected in the past three days.
Health experts continue to urge citizens to stay alert, maintain hygiene, and follow medical advice. Diarrhoea, typically caused by infections or food intolerance, can lead to serious dehydration if left untreated.
