Epidemiological Investigation of an Outbreak of Acute Diarrheal Disease at Talegaon Dabhade, Mawal Block, Pune, Maharashtra

Abstract

Background: Acute Diarrheal Disease (ADD) affects millions of people across the globe, especially in poor socio-economic regions. Most of the diseases and deaths among children result from diarrhea resulting from contaminated water and food sources. In India, most diarrheal outbreaks can be attributed to contaminated water.These outbreaks can be prevented through the provision of safe drinking water. Outbreak investigation plays a vital role in ascertaining the causes of an outbreak and thereby keeping a check on communicable diseases. This paper explores the investigation that followed an outbreak of diarrhea in one of the interior regions of the Pune district in Maharashtra. Objectives: (i) To confirm the existence of an outbreak at Talegaon Dabhade (ii) To identify the source of infection and mode of transmission (iii) To control and prevent the further spread of the outbreak. Methods: A ground review of the outbreak situation was done along with the local health authority of Talegaon Dabhade and the Primary Health Centre (PHC) Staff. Information regarding water samples collection and testing was obtained from Talegaon Municipal Council officials. An observational cross-sectional study using a mixed-method approach was conducted. Face-to-face interviews of 8 cases were conducted using a semi-structured interview schedule. Result: The frontline workers identified a total of 624 cases during the survey. About 209 patients came to seek treatment at the PHC Outpatient Department (OPD) with three reported hospitalizations. The field workers started reporting cases on 27th December 2021. A total of 217 water samples collected from multiple points were sent for water quality testing. Only one sample from the house of an infected person came out to be positive for coliforms. The source of infection of the outbreak could not be identified. Conclusion: Outbreaks can be prevented through training of local health staff, strengthening labs at the government health facilities, and enhancing Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities. This ensures early identification andtimely response to epidemic-prone diseases.