Outbreak Contained, Officials Say

The acute diarrhoea outbreak in Vuyyuru municipality of Krishna district is under control, according to the State Health, Medical and Family Welfare Department. A preliminary report submitted to Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav recorded 19 cases detected between August 19 and 23, with no fatalities.

Fifteen patients were admitted to the Vuyyuru Community Health Centre; six have been discharged and nine remain under care, with all patients reported stable. The remaining four received outpatient treatment.

Investigation and Response

A high-level medical team, including Dr K Arjuna Rao, Dr PL Dayakar and Dr AV Seshu Kumar, conducted field assessments on the minister's directions. They were joined by a Rapid Response Team from Siddhartha Medical College with specialists in paediatrics, microbiology and preventive medicine.

The outbreak has been confined to Wards 5, 7 and 9, beginning with an index case in Sri Lanka Colony on August 19. Ten surveillance teams screened households, finding most patients were aged 40–60, with no evidence of spread to neighbouring villages.

Officials have dispatched 29 water samples and stool samples for laboratory testing. Residents reported changes in water quality, including taste and odour, and some affected individuals had consumed outside food. Medical teams suspect contamination from community water sources combined with food intake, though final causes are pending lab results.

Water Safety and Surveillance

Authorities have initiated chlorination of local water sources and deployed tankers to supply safe drinking water. Two medical camps set up since August 20 are distributing ORS packets and zinc tablets. Door-to-door surveillance has been ongoing since August 19, with ANMs and ASHA workers on duty for household checks and patient care.

Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Hari Kiran instructed officials to maintain strict surveillance until the situation normalises. Senior medical teams and surveillance units remain active in the area.