Spike in hepatitis A cases in Ernakulam-OxBig News Network

Ernakulam has reported over 100 hepatitis A cases over the past three weeks.

From March 11 to March 31, the total number of hepatitis cases reported in the district was 110. With this, the total number of cases reported since February 1 was over 320, as per data available with the Department of Health.

Between March 11 and March 31, the highest number of hepatitis A cases in the district was reported on March 22 (22 cases). On March 13 and 29, as many as 14 and 12 cases were reported, while 11 cases were recorded on March 18.

The health authorities attribute the spike to the use of contaminated water and food. A cluster-like situation was reported from an apartment complex in Thrikkakara on March 22, when nearly 22 cases were recorded. Remedial measures were initiated in association with the health wing of the municipality to check the spread of the disease, they said.

“As part of control measures, we have asked local bodies across the district to ensure super-chlorination of water sources, especially wells used for supply of drinking water under various schemes of the Kerala Water Authority,” they said.

“Apartment complexes have also been told to ensure that the water distributed in tankers remains safe for consumption,” they said.

Varghese Plassery, chairperson of the Health standing committee of Thrikkakara municipality, said super-chlorination of wells had been initiated across wards as part of efforts to check the spread of hepatitis A cases. Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers in association with health workers in the civic body were participating in the drive, he added.

On the action initiated to prevent the use of contaminated food and water in eateries, he said directives had been issued to food outlets. “We have also imposed fines up to ₹25,000 against those found operating in violation of food safety norms,” he said.