Gastroenteritis outbreak in Kashmir amid heatwave prompts Govt action

Srinagar, July 24: In response to a recent outbreak of gastroenteritis in certain areas of Kashmir, particularly in south Kashmir, health authorities have issued a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to be followed by residents across the valley.

The outbreak comes as Kashmir experiences soaring temperatures, highlighting the link between extreme weather conditions and public health challenges.

Directorate of Health Services Kashmir (DHSK) spokesperson, Dr Mir Mushtaq said, “Due to the heatwave, there has been an outbreak of gastroenteritis in some areas of south Kashmir. As a precautionary measure, we have issued SOPs to the public, as heatwaves can lead to a rise in such cases.”

Gastroenteritis, commonly referred to as “stomach flu” is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines that causes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and cramping.

Medical experts explain that while the condition is primarily caused by viral infections, norovirus and rotavirus being the most common culprits, its incidence can increase during heat waves due to dehydration and heat stress.

The relationship between heat waves and gastroenteritis is multifaceted.

Increased sweating and dehydration during hot weather can reduce saliva production and impair digestive function, leading to symptoms like dry mouth, indigestion, and constipation.

Furthermore, heat stress has been linked to flare-ups in inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, potentially exacerbating gastrointestinal issues in affected individuals.

In response to the outbreak, the DHSK issued a Wednesday circular directing all Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents, and Block Medical Officers to undertake extensive awareness campaigns in their respective areas.

The circular emphasised the need to educate the public about the SOPs to prevent further spread of the disease.

The SOPs outlined by the DHSK include: using boiled water for drinking and cooking, practising proper hand hygiene with soap and disinfectants, avoiding close contact with affected individuals, promptly reporting symptoms to the nearest health facility, paying special attention to children’s hygiene and health, keeping children, elderly people, and those with comorbidities away from affected individuals, closely monitoring children's health for early symptom detection, avoiding raw vegetables and salads, washing fruits thoroughly before consumption, steering clear of street food and junk food and staying hydrated and avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours.

The DHSK has also urged health officials to utilise all available channels for public awareness, including announcements, door-to-door campaigns, posters, pamphlets, and social media.

Regular updates on the outbreak and SOPs are to be shared with the public to prevent misinformation.

While gastroenteritis can affect anyone, children and older adults are particularly vulnerable to severe symptoms and complications such as dehydration.

The DHSK has therefore emphasised the need for special attention to these high-risk groups.

Health officials would continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary.

Residents have been strongly advised to stay informed and adhere to the prescribed guidelines to protect themselves and their communities from the spread of gastroenteritis.