Diarrhoea Outbreak Assessment After Cyclone AILA in India
Author Information
Author(s): Samiran Panda, Kamala Kanta Bhattacharya, Mihir Kumar Koley, Hemanta Pahari, Sobha Nair, G. Balakrish
Primary Institution: National Institute of Cholera & Enteric Diseases (ICMR), Kolkata, India
Hypothesis
Was Cyclone AILA responsible for the increased reporting of diarrhoea cases in East-Medinipur?
Conclusion
The study found a significant increase in diarrhoea cases following Cyclone AILA, confirming a cholera outbreak in the affected area.
Supporting Evidence
- Diarrhoea cases increased significantly in June 2009 compared to June 2007.
- Vibrio cholerae was found in 54% of stool samples from patients.
- The attack rate of diarrhoea was highest in the Haldia subdivision at 9 per 1000.
Takeaway
After a big storm in India, many people got sick with diarrhoea, and doctors found that a germ called Vibrio cholerae was making them sick.
Methodology
The study used rapid situation and response assessment techniques, including field visits and prescription audits.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in reporting and data collection methods may affect the findings.
Limitations
The study was limited to a specific geographic area and may not represent diarrhoea outbreaks in other regions.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 39 patients with diarrhoea, with a mix of genders and ages ranging from infants to adults.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.52-1.65 and 1.21-1.32
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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