54 fall Ill in suspected food poisoning outbreak in Durg village
Former CM reviews treatment arrangements in affected village
Bhilai | Correspondent: An outbreak of suspected food poisoning and diarrhea has caused alarm in Beloudi village, located within the Patan block of Durg district. Given the gravity of the situation, former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel visited his native village, Beloudi, on Wednesday; there, he inquired about the well-being of the affected villagers and closely inspected the special medical camp established by the Health Department.
So far, a total of 54 villagers in Beloudi have fallen ill with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea; several of them, whose conditions deteriorated, have been admitted to various hospitals. According to the Health Department's preliminary assessment, the consumption of contaminated food items, specifically Gupchup (Pani Puri) and Chat at the weekly market (Haat Bazaar) held on Sunday, is likely the primary cause of the outbreak.
However, the administration is also conducting tests on water samples to identify any other potential sources of infection.
During his inspection, Bhupesh Baghel conferred with the medical team and the doctors stationed at the site regarding the availability of medicines and the treatment protocols in place. From the spot, he telephoned the Durg Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO), Dr. Manoj Dani, and issued directives ensuring that there are absolutely no deficiencies in medical facilities within the affected area and that the condition of every patient is continuously monitored.
Following his visit to Beloudi, the former Chief Minister proceeded to the Patan Health Center, where he met with admitted patients and instructed the doctors to ensure they received the best possible medical care.
Amidst this crisis, a village resident named Saraswati Nishad has tragically passed away. The former Chief Minister visited the deceased's residence and offered his condolences to her grieving family members. He clarified that the actual cause of death would be ascertained only after the post-mortem report is received.
Currently, Health Department teams remain on high alert in the village around the clock, and two ambulances have been kept on standby for any emergencies. CMHO Dr. Manoj Dani stated that 16 patients are currently undergoing treatment across various hospitals, including those in Patan, the District Hospital, and Selud, and their condition is now reported to be stable.
The administration has appealed to the villagers to exercise caution regarding their dietary habits and to immediately contact the medical camp should they observe any symptoms of illness.
