Srinagar, Sep 14 (IANS): Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan Sunday assured Jammu and Kashmir health authorities of providing assistance to tackle any possible epidemic following the recent floods there.

He met Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and took a detailed review of the health-related relief measures and other healthcare facilities, according to an official statement.

Abdullah sought central assistance to restore health infrastructure affected by floods and also to carry out an extensive measles vaccination programme for the vulnerable age group of 0-15 years.

He also said that almost 50 lakh chlorine tablets have been received in the state and mobile purification plants are providing safe drinking water to the people.

The chief minister said the authorities have been directed to press into service more pumps for de-watering and to take apt preventive measures to check any epidemic outbreak.

The statement added that Harsh Vardhan was also apprised that emergency medicine supplies have been dispatched to various district hospitals.

The minister asked the state health authorities to rush medical teams to various affected areas so that healthcare facilities are provided to the needy.

He said it is important to inform people about the water purification methods and other vaccinations to check diseases.