Kerala Steps Up Efforts to Combat Hepatitis A Surge in Kozhikode and Kochi

Kozhikode’s Hepatitis A Surge

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has called for immediate action from the Food Safety and Local Self-government departments to address the rise in Hepatitis A cases in Kozhikode district. This directive follows media reports that prompted the Commission to initiate a suo motu case. Judicial member K. Baijunath emphasized the importance of ensuring food and water safety, as well as cleanliness, in the affected areas. Authorities have been instructed to assess the quality of food and water being distributed and submit a report within 15 days. A session will be held in Kozhikode on December 20 to discuss the issue further. In the first week of November, 54 people fell ill from the virus, with cases reported in the Kozhikode Corporation and surrounding grama panchayats.

Kochi Health Alert: Rising Hepatitis A Cases

Meanwhile, the district health department in Kochi has issued a warning, advising the public to be cautious when consuming cold drinks or food from outside sources. As of this year, the district has recorded 722 suspected cases, 563 confirmed cases, and eight fatalities.

The most severely affected areas include Sreemoolanagaram, Malayattoor, Payipra, Kizhakkambalam, Mattancherry, Nellikkuzhi, Kothamangalam, Nedumbassery, Kalamassery, Vengoor, and Avoli. Dr. Asha Devi, the district medical officer, highlighted that the virus is primarily spreading through contaminated drinking water, impure ice in soft drinks, poor hygiene, and unboiled water.

Hygiene Tips to Prevent Hepatitis A

To curb the spread of Hepatitis A, Dr Devi stressed the need for strict personal hygiene and cleanliness in food preparation, drinking water, and the surrounding environment. She recommended several safety measures:

Consume boiled water and avoid mixing cold and warm water.
Carry your own boiled water when leaving home.
Wash hands thoroughly with soap.
Keep wells free from debris and clean them regularly.
Periodically treat wells with chlorine.
Avoid consuming food or drinks from unhygienic environments, especially old or spoiled items.
Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
Always cover food and water to protect them from contamination.
Avoid relieving yourself in public spaces.
Prevent garbage accumulation near residential areas.

By following these guidelines, residents can help reduce the spread of Hepatitis A and protect their health.

Source: The Hindu