Assam's floodwaters recede, water-borne infections become more prevalent

BY A STAFF REPORTER : The officials are now concerned about an increase in water- and vector-borne disease cases in the flood-affected districts since the situation in Assam has been improving. The Assam State Health Department reports that 74 instances of Japanese encephalitis have been documented in the state so far this year, and seven of those cases have resulted in fatalities.

25 new cases of Japanese encephalitis have been reported in the state in the last 24 hours, and two deaths are also included. One person died from the virus and three more cases have been found in central Assam's Nagaon district.

The health team collected blood samples from the villagers while visiting a number of locations within the  Raha assembly constituency.

The authorities are now concerned about an increase in water- and vector-borne illnesses since the flood situation in Assam has been getting better.

"In our area, four JE cases have so far been reported. Our medical teams have travelled to the flood-affected areas and have taken villager samples "Dr. Liladhar Das, Sub-Divisional Medical Officer, stated.

"People ought to use some insecticide as a preventative precaution. Wearing full-sleeved shirts is advised. We have held awareness campaigns, "Community health officer  Naba Jyoti  Das said.