The Balli Primary Health Centre has identified a sixth individual exhibiting symptoms of diarrhoea during recent health screenings at the fishing jetties.
In response, the fisheries and health departments have implemented standard operating procedures (SOPs) to curb the spread of the illness.
Ahead of the annual monsoon fishing ban being lifted, the department arranged for health screenings at the jetty, focusing on workers arriving from outside the state.
“Only individuals with valid health cards, issued after successful screening, are permitted to board fishing vessels,” the statement added.
Precautions have been intensified to reduce risks of waterborne and vector-borne diseases. SOPs and informational posters have been distributed to raise awareness among stakeholders about hygiene, safe waste disposal, and drinking clean water.
Officials at Cutbona Jetty are actively engaging with fishermen’s societies to educate members on essential health practices. To support these efforts, sanitation facilities at the jetty have been upgraded.
Health Department teams, suspecting cholera, were stationed at the jetty on Friday to screen workers.
The recently built 50-seater toilet facility has been opened alongside existing toilets, increasing the total to 69.
“Fishermen are urged to use the sanitation facilities and stay alert for any symptoms of illness. Regular cleanliness drives and fogging are being carried out at the jetty to control vector and waterborne diseases and ensure hygiene,” the department added.