Rajouri: An elderly woman has died, and at least 19 residents have been hospitalized in Sakri village, Rajouri district, due to a gastroenteritis outbreak linked to contaminated drinking water.
The deceased, a 75-year-old woman with pre-existing health conditions, suffered from acute diarrhoea. Health officials reported that over the past 72 hours, 19 villagers exhibited symptoms such as persistent diarrhoea, vomiting, and dehydration, with two severe cases requiring transfer to GMC Jammu for advanced care. Laboratory tests revealed the presence of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in water samples from the affected area, indicating contamination likely caused by poor sanitation and faecal matter. Health officials confirmed that this outbreak is waterborne, directly associated with the E. coli findings. A mobile medical unit has been deployed in Sakri to treat patients with mild symptoms at their homes, while health authorities are concerned about the outbreak, especially following a similar incident in Kotli Bagla village two weeks prior, where 30 individuals fell ill. In response to the outbreak, local administration has intensified containment efforts, advising residents to boil drinking water and avoid raw vegetables or cold food. Cleaning and disinfection of water sources are underway, and surveillance has been increased in neighboring villages to detect any further cases early. A comprehensive investigation is being conducted to identify the source of contamination, with the aim of ensuring the safety of the water supply. Darhal MLA Javed Iqbal Chowdhury has urged the public to adhere to health advisories and take necessary precautions. He expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and noted that most affected villagers are recovering, emphasizing the importance of consuming only boiled water and avoiding uncooked food during this period.
