Report

Kalamassery in Kochi, Kerala is facing a significant hepatitis A outbreak affecting the regions of Peringazha, HMT Estate, and Kurupra. Health authorities confirmed 29 cases of jaundice, with 27 still active and three patients in critical condition, requiring ICU care. This marks the third hepatitis A outbreak in Ernakulam district this year, following outbreaks in Vengola and Thrikkakara municipalities. Authorities traced the outbreak to contaminated water consumed during a housewarming event in HMT Estate on November 17, which led to attendees developing symptoms. On Friday, Industries Minister P. Rajeev, MLA of Kalamassery, led a review meeting to address the situation.

Cases Continue to Rise

Nishad AK, the municipality’s standing committee chairman for health, confirmed that 36 active hepatitis A cases have now been reported in the municipality, following seven new cases on Sunday. The local body organized a medical camp on Saturday at HMT Colony L P School, where 135 residents registered. Of these, 95 showed symptoms of hepatitis A. Health officials collected blood samples, and seven individuals tested positive for the disease.

Health Officials Take Control Measures

Health officials have chlorinated the water supply in the affected areas, particularly in Peringazha and HMT Estate. Municipality Chairperson Seema Kannan confirmed that preventive measures are in place. Hospitals continue to report an influx of patients with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, body aches, and jaundice, particularly among those who ate meals at local hotels. Although food safety officials have not yet received notifications from Ernakulam health authorities, investigations are ongoing.

Epidemiological Link Confirmed, Medical Advice Issued

Health experts traced the outbreak to the housewarming event held on November 17, confirming an epidemiological link. Authorities advised anyone who attended the event to seek immediate medical attention if they develop symptoms. By November 20, the district had reported around 600 confirmed jaundice cases and eight fatalities, a sharp rise from last year when no deaths occurred. District health officials continue to manage the increasing number of cases, with a similar outbreak earlier at DLF New Town Heights in Kakkanad.

Preventive Measures and Ongoing Actions

Health authorities are urging people to avoid serving unboiled water at events, as it has been linked to hepatitis A outbreaks. They also recommend avoiding food and water prepared under unsanitary conditions. To control the outbreak, health officials began superchlorinating water sources, including wells, on December 23, with the process continuing through December 24. The District Medical Office confirmed that health officials visited the affected areas to implement additional preventive measures.

Community Hygiene and Awareness Initiatives

Health officials advised residents to drink only boiled water and not mix it with untreated water. They also recommended boiling chlorinated water before consumption. Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) visited affected wards to encourage residents to wash their hands with soap before handling food, after eating, and after using the toilet. They also warned residents to avoid eating stale or uncovered food.

Food Safety Inspections and Violations

To combat the outbreak, the municipality’s health department inspected 13 restaurants and issued notices to 11 for violating food safety regulations. Six of the restaurants sold stale food, and health officials found poor hygiene practices. Some restaurants stored expired milk and other products, and several outlets did not have health cards for their staff. Furthermore, some juice shops used water from nearby wells without conducting proper scientific tests for quality.

As Kalamassery battles the hepatitis A outbreak, authorities are focusing on public awareness and taking additional steps to prevent further spread of the disease.

Source: The Times of India