5 die in Diphtheria Outbreak: Odisha CM orders probe

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has directed the Health Department and Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC) to probe the causes of the recent diphtheria cases in Rayagada district.

The direction in this regard was issued after the RMRC confirmed a death due to diphtheria at Manuspadar village of Kashipur block in the Rayagada district. It was the fifth case in the series of deaths suspected due to diphtheria.

According to a PTI report, "A prophylactic dose of antibiotic has been given to all susceptible persons in the community and the symptomatic patients are responding to treatment. The situation is under control," a statement issued by the chief minister's office said.

Official sources said that at least five reported deaths have taken place at Manuspadar village in Kashipur block of Rayagada district over a period of one month. The village is in a remote and difficult area. The outbreak of the disease started in the village in the last week.

Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.

Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) of Rayagada Dr Lalmohan Routray said, "Blood samples of the affected persons have been collected and sent to Bhubaneswar for test to ascertain the disease."

Meanwhile, a health department team visited the village and carried out door-to-door screening and treatment, the official said, adding that health teams are visiting daily and closely monitoring the situation, news agency PTI reported.

"The first four deaths were not brought to any health facility and were cremated at the community level. But they are suspected to be cases of diphtheria," the statement said.