Kasaragod (Keralam), Nov 9 Keralam Minister K Muraleedharan on Monday said the spread of Shigella infection in the state was under control and no patient was in critical condition.
Speaking to reporters here ahead of a review of healthcare facilities in this north Keralam district, he said the state government would accord priority to strengthening the health sector in Kasaragod.
Shigella is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps. It spreads mainly through contaminated food or water and contact with infected persons.
Several cases have recently been reported in Keralam, particularly in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts.
“The situation is under control, and there is no need for undue concern. No one is in a serious condition. In several places, the problem is related to contaminated drinking water. Despite repeated instructions, prescribed standards are often not followed while serving food and water at public functions,” the state Health Minister said.
Regarding healthcare facilities in Kasaragod, he said the state government would prioritise addressing the district’s requirements.
He said vacancies persisted despite posts being sanctioned, mainly due to a shortage of doctors.
Around 94 doctor posts had been sanctioned in the district, and candidates had attended interviews, but only 34 doctors had joined, he said.
The government would, in principle, decide that doctors appointed to the district should not be transferred elsewhere for at least two years, he said.
Muraleedharan said steps would be taken to complete the construction of Kasaragod Medical College within a year.
Acknowledging delays in the work, he said the issues would be resolved soon.
He said Periya Panchayat in the district was among the four locations recommended by the Keralam government to the Centre for setting up an All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
Responding to allegations that the department lacked qualified doctors, Muraleedharan said he did not agree with the assertion that all doctors were unqualified.
He said the matter would be examined and appropriate action taken.
(PTI News)
