Srinagar, July 23: The Health Department Kashmir on Tuesday issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in response to the outbreak of gastroenteritis in certain areas of Kashmir division.
The department issued a circular to prevent further spread of the disease adding that it was imperative to make the public aware of various SOPs to be followed.
It called on all Chief Medical Officers, Medical Superintendents and Block Medical Officers to undertake extensive awareness campaigns in their respective areas.
The department has issued SOPs which include the use of boiled water for drinking and cooking and proper hand hygiene practices. “Using of soap and other disinfectants for the hand wash, avoiding close contact with affected individuals and quick reporting to the nearest health facility in case of symptoms,” it said.
The circular said that special focus should be given to children and that people should ensure that children wash their hands frequently. “Keep children, elderly people and persons with comorbidities away from affected individuals. Monitor children’s health closely for early detection of symptoms,” it said.
The SOPs suggested avoiding using raw vegetables and salads, adding that fruits should be used only after properly washing them. These also suggested avoiding street foods and junk foods adding that people should remain hydrated and avoid direct contact with sunlight during peak hours of the day.
