Key Development

The Kozhikode Corporation informed the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) that it has implemented all necessary steps to ensure the safety of welcome drinks served at parties and public functions. This update followed suo motu proceedings initiated by the Commission after a surge in Hepatitis A infections, which affected 56 people in November 2024. Investigations linked the outbreak to contaminated welcome drinks served at various events across the city and suburbs.

Monitoring Ice Quality and Health Follow-Up

Judicial member K. Baiju Nath directed the Corporation and the Food Safety Commissioner to submit detailed reports on the outbreak. In response, the Corporation stated that it monitors ice quality by inspecting local ice plants and scientifically testing the water used for ice production. Its health wing conducts continuous follow-up actions across all 75 wards to curb the spread of Hepatitis A.

Inspections, Public Awareness, and Infrastructure Upgrades

The Corporation has intensified inspections at cool bars, street food outlets, and hotels, and strengthened public awareness campaigns and water chlorination efforts. Officials highlighted that once the sewage treatment plants at Sarovaram and West Hill begin operations, the city’s waste management challenges will largely be resolved. The 100 KLD-capacity plant at the Government Medical College Hospital is already operational.

Food Safety Commissioner Reports No Single Source

The Food Safety Commissioner reported that investigators could not identify a single source, such as a specific hotel or food item, as the origin of the outbreak. He also noted that Kozhikode currently lacks a facility to test for Hepatitis A. After reviewing the submissions, the Human Rights Commission closed the proceedings related to the case.

Source: Manorama