Abstract Background: Acute diarrheal diseases (ADDs) remain a concerning public health burden in India, particularly in rural areas. In May–June 2023, Village X, Kalahandi district, Odisha, faced an H3N2 influenza outbreak. Objectives: We investigated the outbreak to identify its etiology and inform prevention strategies. Materials and Methods: We defined cases as individuals experiencing three or more watery stools within 24 h during the outbreak period. We conducted active case search through household surveys and interviews, and we collected data on demographic data, water source use, sanitation practices, and hygiene. Water samples were analyzed for coliform contamination, and rectal swabs from cases were cultured for enteric pathogens. We described cases by time, place, and person, and attack rates (ARs) were calculated. Results: A total of 41 ADD cases were identified among 272 residents (AR = 15%). The AR was higher in Tala-Sahi (32%) compared to Upar Sahi (8%). The primary source of drinking water for most cases was a contaminated tubewell in Tala-Sahi. Laboratory analysis confirmed coliform contamination in the tubewell water. Conclusion: This outbreak highlights the critical role of contaminated drinking water and poor sanitation in driving ADD in rural India. Interventions to improve water quality, promote safe sanitation practices, and enhance hygiene awareness are essential to prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.
Thakur et al. (2026) studied this question.
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