Rayagada, July 1: A surge in diarrhoeal infections has gripped Rayagada district, with 20 new patients admitted to the district headquarters hospital in the past 24 hours.

The outbreak is spreading rapidly across several villages.

Affected areas include Penta and Pitamahal in Rayagada Sadar block, and Suri and Chandili villages in Kolnara block, where multiple residents have reported symptoms of vomiting and loose motion.

In response, the district administration has launched an intensive awareness campaign, urging residents to avoid unsafe food and water.

On the other hand, medical teams are conducting door-to-door visits, distributing ORS packets and educating people on hygiene practices.

Doctors have strongly advised against seeking help from traditional healers or unverified remedies, emphasising the importance of prompt medical treatment.

Meanwhile, food stalls set up for Rath Yatra celebrations are being inspected and raided to prevent further spread of infection through unhygienic snacks and drinks.

Health officials have stocked up on saline, antibiotics, and ORS at key health centres, anticipating a possible rise in cases if the rains continue. The administration is also monitoring water sources and urging residents to boil drinking water and maintain sanitation.

Rayagada has historically been vulnerable to waterborne diseases, and officials are on high alert to prevent a repeat of past outbreaks.

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