According to reports, the village of Manuspadar in the Kashipur Block of Rayagada district has reported five deaths from diphtheria. The health department is investigating the cause of the outbreak.

• Following these deaths, the district health department held several meetings, diagnosing the disease as diphtheria and initiating efforts to eradicate it. Health workers have established a presence in Manuspadar, monitoring the health of residents. Despite these efforts, the challenges facing Manuspadar are compounded by seasonal factors like waterlogging during the monsoon, exacerbating living conditions.
• Diphtheria has also spread to neighboring Koraput and Kalahandi districts, with one infected person from Bandhugan in Koraput district succumbing to the disease.
• In light of these circumstances, the villagers have appealed to the government to take appropriate steps for the betterment of the village.