Gastroenteritis outbreak in Kashmir: Health Dept issues Do’s and Don’ts for public 

Srinagar: The Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, has issued a public health advisory to address an outbreak of gastroenteritis in several areas within the region. This advisory emphasizes the importance of community awareness and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to curb the spread of the disease.

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viral or bacterial infections and has been reported in several areas in Kashmir. It has been reported that both children and adults in certain areas are reporting  symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. The outbreak in Kashmir has prompted health authorities to take proactive measures to prevent further spread.

Key SOPs to follow for public:

The health advisory outlines several critical SOPs that residents must follow to ensure their safety and the safety of others:

1. Use of Boiled Water:
– Ensure all drinking and cooking water is boiled to eliminate potential pathogens.

2. Hand Hygiene:
– Practice proper hand hygiene by using soap and disinfectants for hand washing, especially after using the restroom and before eating.

3. Avoiding Close Contact:
– Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of gastroenteritis to prevent transmission.

4. Quick Reporting:
– Report symptoms promptly to the nearest health facility for timely medical intervention.

5. Special Focus on Children:
– Children are particularly vulnerable, so it’s crucial to ensure they wash their hands frequently and avoid contact with sick individuals.

6. Monitoring Health:
– Keep a close watch on children’s health for early detection of symptoms and seek medical advice immediately if they fall ill.

7. Dietary Precautions:
– Avoid consuming raw vegetables, salads, and street food. Ensure all fruits are washed thoroughly before eating.

8. Hydration:
– Stay hydrated by drinking clean water and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours to prevent dehydration.

Raising Awareness:

To effectively communicate these SOPs, the Directorate of Health Services has urged the use of multiple awareness channels:

The role of Health Officials: 

Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents, and Block Medical Officers have been tasked with conducting extensive awareness campaigns within their respective areas. They are also responsible for providing regular updates on the outbreak and SOPs to prevent misinformation and ensure public cooperation.