Bengaluru: Following the death of a resident and the spread of illnesses in Vijayanagar, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has directed officials to improve sanitation and contain the outbreak of leptospirosis in affected areas. Several villagers have reported symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea, raising public health concerns.
Minister Rao emphasized the need for immediate intervention in neighborhoods housing economically disadvantaged residents, which are most affected by poor hygiene. “According to official reports, one person has died. I urge officials from the municipality, health department, and village panchayat to prioritize cleanliness efforts in these vulnerable areas,” he said.
Lack of Hygiene Blamed for Outbreak
The minister pointed out that unsanitary conditions were reported in four houses within the village. “Hygiene protocols were not followed, and animals were present in these households, which could have contributed to the rise in leptospirosis cases,” Rao said, citing information from the Zilla Panchayat CEO.
Leptospirosis, caused by bacteria that enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, is commonly transmitted through contact with contaminated water or the urine of infected animals. Outbreaks often occur following floods or exposure to polluted water, especially in tropical regions.
Symptoms and Risks
Early signs of leptospirosis include high fever, muscle pain, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, and redness in the eyes. The disease affects both humans and animals, with humans typically becoming infected through contact with contaminated water or animal waste.
Immediate Response and Prevention
Minister Rao urged officials to ensure sanitation measures are strictly enforced to prevent further infections. He also stressed the importance of spreading awareness among residents about hygiene practices to limit exposure.
Health officials are working closely with the village panchayat to monitor the situation and prevent the outbreak from spreading to other areas.
