Gastroenteritis outbreak: DHSK asks officers to hold awareness camps

Srinagar, July 24: Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) Wednesday impressed all Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents and Block Medical Officers to undertake extensive awareness campaigns to prevent further spread of gastroenteritis, and make public aware of the various Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The DHSK in a circular issued said, “There has been an outbreak of gastroenteritis in certain areas of Kashmir division. In order to prevent further spread of the disease, it is imperative to make the public aware of the various Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed. In this regard, all Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents, and Block Medical Officers are impressed upon to undertake extensive awareness campaigns in their respective areas”.

The DHSK urged general public for use of boiled water for drinking and cooking; proper hand hygiene practices. Using of soap and other disinfectants for the hand wash; avoiding close contact with affected individuals; quick reporting to nearest health facility in case of symptoms; special focus on children; ensure children wash their hand frequently; keep children, elderly people and persons with comorbidities away from affected individuals; monitor children’s health closely for early detection of symptom; avoid using raw vegetables and salads; fruits should be used only after properly washing them; avoid street foods and junk foods; and remain hydrated, avoid direct contact with sunlight during peak hours in day.

It also urged officers to utilize all available channels for awareness including miking; door-to-door campaigns; posters and pamphlets; and social media.

The circular held that regular updates on the outbreak and SOPs must be shared with the public to prevent misinformation.