Click to play videoNew Delhi: There is a fear of outbreak of an epidemic in Bihar because of floodwater stagnation, poor sanitation and impure drinking water.
But Union Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss has shrugged off such fears calling outbreaks of epidemic in the state a routine affair.
“Bihar has been a center of epidemics even before the floods. So it is nothing new for Bihar. They have cases of polio, they have cases of JE (Japanese Encephalitis), malaria is a problem, kala azar is a problem. All have been there,” Ramadoss said.
The administration is already facing the challenge of warding off the outbreak of an epidemic. Shortage of doctors and affordable medicines has only made matters worse.
Public hospitals and makeshift clinics at rescue camps are teeming with patients. Large pools of standing water have only increased the likelihood of disease and cases of high fever, common cold and diarrhoea are increasing - possible indicators of water borne diseases.
There aren't enough doctors to tend to the large number of patients. Desperate for medical treatment, some poor patients have resorted to turning to private healthcare.
The floods in Kosi, which has also changes its course, have affected more than 30 lakh people in over 16 districts.
Over 1 lakh hectare of land is now covered with heavy sand deposits brought by the flood waters and crop worth Rs 200 crore has been damaged.
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