Officials told to prevent waterborne diseases during Krishna Pushkaralu
Vijayawada: A special team from the Union health ministry which has monitored the Krishna Pushkaralu arrangements, has submitted a draft to ministry to keep an eye on the food and drinking water arrangements during the river fete. Fearing an outbreak of diarrhoea, the state government was cautioned to take all preventive measures.
More than 100 specialist doctors and 400 medical officers are extending support for the Krishna Pushkaralu. Keeping in view the possible waterborne diseases, the medical and health department is taking utmost care to address any health issues of pilgrims.
The department is contemplating round the clock services, by distributing the available staff in three shifts. However, the health department does not have clarity as to how the drugs distribution takes place.
The confluence of two rivers has already had a visible impact over fish and other species, which has generated concern over the health of the pilgrims. It is noticed that in some ghats, dead fish was seen floating, following which the Union health ministry reportedly sought a detailed draft. Experts who prepared the report stated that a possibility of diarrhoea among the pilgrims could surface.
In fact, the health administration has already started work on setting up 227 medical camps. A total of 2,800 health personnel will be deployed in these camps to serve the pilgrims round the clock. Another 900 personnel from other districts of the state will also join these camps by August 10.
While 128 specialist doctors will be extending their services during Pushkaralu, 419 medical officers and 2,749 medical and health personnel will be assisting them through the Pushkaralu.
