Key Update

The Health Department in Kerala has suspended the registrations of six doctors for 21 days for issuing fake health certificates or medical fitness certificates to food handlers without conducting physical examinations. Health Minister Veena George said the action followed an inquiry by the Kerala State Council of Modern Medicine.

After receiving intimation from the department, the Council issued notices, reviewed documents, and held personal hearings. Finding the complaint to be valid, it ordered the suspension. The doctors are barred from practising in hospitals and private clinics during this period, but can appeal to the National Medical Commission within 60 days.

Health Cards and Medical Checks

The Health Department made health cards mandatory for food handlers in February 2023 to tighten food safety and hygiene controls after repeated food poisoning incidents, some fatal. Food business operators are responsible for ensuring all food handlers hold valid medical fitness certificates.

These certificates require a physical examination to rule out open wounds, skin infections, and contagious diseases such as tuberculosis. Blood tests and typhoid vaccination are mandatory. Certificates are valid for one year, and establishments must keep records ready for inspection by Health or Food Safety officials.

Risky Practices Under Watch

Health officials flagged the practice of mass “medical camps” where doctors sign certificates without examining workers, calling it a serious public health risk that undermines food safety efforts. Past lapses have had consequences—during the 2016 Hepatitis A outbreak in Nellikuzhy, authorities traced the source to a food handler preparing lime juice.

Source: The Hindu