Dhenkanal: Jaundice scare has gripped Bhuban NAC of Kamakhyanagar in the district. Infected water bodies with unhygienic conditions have resulted in at least 25 testing positive for jaundice in the last 10 days itself.
Reports suggest that in Bhuban NAC ward numbers 10, 11 and 12 are the worst affected. Children below the age of 15 are more susceptible owing to their lower body resistance.
A local Nishakar Sahoo said, “Gradual decline in the water table has lead us to be depended on piped water supply. It turned out to be a nightmare for us.”
“The drains are also not cleaned properly on time. Nor are the garbage picked on time. We are very scared for our children,” another localite Tuni Sahoo adds.
Kalpana Sahoo of ward number 10 says, “My only daughter is also suffering from jaundice and there are many others like her. Doctors and other medical facilities are also not proper here. Unlike others, we are financially stable to take her to Cuttack for treatment. We do not know what to do”
The ones diagnosed with jaundice are being treated at the Bhuban hospital or at Dhenkanal Main Hospital. Serious patients have been referred to Cuttack SCB Medical College and Hospital.
The locals allege that jaundice is gradually taking the shape of an epidemic in the area and the officials have turned a blind eye to their plight.
They have also demanded hygienic vicinity and cleaner water in the area so that the jaundice scare doesn’t take an alarming turn.
Adequate measures are expected from the government.
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Ms Kalinga