Panic ensues in Kutch after 14 deaths due to suspected epidemic

A panic has erupted in Gujarat’s Lakhpat and Abdasa talukas following the deaths of 14 individuals in just 4 days due to a suspected epidemic. The outbreak, which has claimed lives primarily due to fever and pneumonia, has seen six children among the deceased.

Local district panchayat members have expressed concerns about medical professionals’ inability to accurately diagnose the illness. The district administration has indicated that the cases appear to be instances of viral fever. Two additional deaths have been recorded since the investigative teams arrived, both victims showing similar symptoms and succumbing to pneumonia.

Authorities have increased efforts to supply clean drinking water and essential medical aid to the affected villages. Health teams are conducting door-to-door surveys and setting up medical camps in the most affected areas. The outbreak has sparked widespread concern, and officials are hopeful that swift intervention will help control the situation.

Officials have urged the public to avoid panic and assured them that all necessary measures are being taken to safeguard public health. The results of the ongoing medical investigation are expected within the next two days, which may provide more clarity on the nature of the outbreak.

The Congress has accused the state government of failing to act promptly despite repeated warnings. Party leaders have labeled the situation an ‘epidemic’ and are demanding immediate intervention from Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. 

They have called for expert medical teams and laboratory tests to diagnose the illness and bring the situation under control. The party also criticised the lack of clean drinking water and the government’s unresponsiveness to the crisis.

In response, the Gujarat government has deployed 22 medical and surveillance teams to the affected areas. The teams include microbiologists, pediatricians, epidemiologists, and public health experts. 

Health Minister of the state, Rushikesh Patel, stated that the government is aware of the 12 deaths that occurred in the last three to four days and is taking swift action. The teams will conduct thorough surveys and a report is expected within two days.

Details of the Deceased

The deceased include:

September 3: Shakur Jat (age 22, Bakhada)

September 4: Junas (age 18), Mustaq (age 18)

September 5: Suleman (age 50)

September 6: Ayanabai (age 5, Bakhada)

September 7: Adam Jat (age 11, Sandhro), Latif (age 13, Bharavandh), Ejaz Sumra (age 7, Lakhapar), Mukim Jat (age 48, Morgar), Abdullah (age 30, Medhi), Shakinabai Ibrahim Jat (age 32, Valasari), Shakinabai Salemamad Jat (age 12)

The situation in Kutch remains critical as authorities continue their efforts to diagnose and contain the outbreak. The government’s response and deployment of medical teams aim to identify the cause of the illness and prevent further fatalities.

(With inputs from syndicated feed)

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