Amid soaring temperatures and water scarcity in Bengaluru, one case of cholera has been confirmed, with state health department officials attributing it to the consumption of contaminated water. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao clarified that while cases related to diarrhoea are under close observation and testing for cholera, the situation doesn’t constitute an outbreak.
The affected individual, residing in Bengaluru’s Malleswaram area as a paying guest, reportedly utilized untreated water on the premises. All three samples sent for testing originate from the same paying guest accommodation. Health authorities have also collected water samples from the site to track the water supply source and determine the spread of infection.
Tushar Girinath, Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner, emphasized that this isn’t an outbreak scenario. While the initial test yielded a positive result for cholera, further confirmation tests are pending. Additionally, following reports of two more diarrhoea cases from the same location, extensive sampling has been initiated for further investigations.
The origin of the water supply, separate from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), is being scrutinized. Girinath highlighted BWSSB’s efforts to enhance water chlorination and regular monitoring of water samples from various city points to detect cholera strains.
As a precautionary measure, Rao announced the forthcoming issuance of an advisory to raise awareness. Recommendations include boiling water before consumption, opting for fresh food, and avoiding roadside eateries where hygiene standards may be compromised. The minister particularly cautioned against consuming food from street vendors like pani puri stalls, which are susceptible to water contamination.
Doctors underscored the seriousness of cholera as a waterborne disease, leading to dehydration and potentially fatal consequences. They urged stringent adherence to clean water consumption, sanitation improvement, and regular vaccination in high-risk areas.
In the backdrop of dwindling water resources and escalating temperatures, vigilance and preventive measures against waterborne diseases like cholera become paramount for public health in Bengaluru.
