Srinagar: At least 27 individuals, mostly children, have tested positive for jaundice in Gutligund village of South Kashmir’s Anantnag, raising concerns among the local population.
The outbreak has prompted health authorities to take swift action to manage the situation and investigate the cause.
According to officials, a screening process is underway in the village, with medical teams and ASHA workers conducting door-to-door awareness campaigns to educate residents on preventive measures. “The situation is under control as all patients are stable and recovering well,” an official said.
Residents, however, allege that contaminated water is the primary cause of the outbreak. Water samples have been collected, and their results are awaited.
In response to the situation, the Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has formed a five-member probe team to investigate the source of the outbreak and recommend preventive and control measures. As per an official order, the team is tasked with visiting the village and submitting an action plan to the Principal of GMC Anantnag by the end of January.
The probe team is headed by Dr. Mahbooba Rasool, Associate Professor of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar. Other members include Dr. Abiroo Jan (Associate Professor of Microbiology), Dr. Irfan Gul (Associate Professor of General Medicine), Dr. Asif Aziz (Consultant Pediatrics), and Aijaz Ahmad (Health Educator, UHTC Brakpora). The team will also provide necessary healthcare interventions for the affected individuals.
Authorities remain vigilant, and efforts are ongoing to address the health concerns of the village while awaiting the results of water sample analysis.
