At a Glance

• Nearly 40% spike in Delhi-NCR in hepatitis A and E cases reported
• Contaminated water, food, and poor sanitation are identified as key causes
• Children and pregnant women are most affected
• Doctors urge vaccination, boiled water, and hygiene
• Slum areas and waterlogged zones hit hardest

Key Development

Hospitals across Delhi-NCR are witnessing a significant rise in hepatitis A and E cases, triggered by unsafe drinking water, poor sanitation, and contaminated food during the monsoon. Health experts estimate a nearly 40% increase in viral hepatitis cases, particularly in areas affected by waterlogging and unhygienic conditions.

Leading hospitals, including Max and Sir Ganga Ram, report a steady flow of patients showing symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. The infections are especially affecting children and pregnant women, who are more vulnerable to hepatitis A and E, both spread through the faecal-oral route.

The worst-hit areas include urban slums and densely populated localities with inadequate drainage and poor drinking water facilities. Overflowing drains, contaminated pipelines, and the widespread consumption of food prepared in unhygienic environments have further worsened the situation.

Need for Vaccination and Better Hygiene

Medical professionals emphasise the importance of hepatitis A vaccination as a preventive measure. They recommend boiling drinking water, avoiding street food, and maintaining personal hygiene, particularly during the monsoon, when infections tend to rise. While hospitals continue to manage the increasing caseload, experts highlight the urgent need for municipal authorities to enhance waste and water management, especially in high-risk areas. Timely public health messaging and infrastructure improvements could play a crucial role in curbing the outbreak.

Source: Money Control