Health department calls for vigil against hepatitis A

Kozhikode: With rise in number of hepatitis A cases, district health department have urged public to keep vigil.

The officials have directed the public to maintain personal hygiene and to avoid consuming juice and food items from outside.

As many as 89 viral hepatitis A cases have been reported since January 1, 2019. Seven cases were reported from Ulleiyeri and six cases from Chengorathu in Perambra area.

The health department authorities have launched special programmes to raise awareness about the importance of hand washing. Public have also been asked to avoid consuming welcome drinks at functions.

The health department has also directed the in-charge of primary health centres and community health centres to take immediate remedial measures in case of sudden surge in viral hepatitis A cases and also pass on the information to the district medical officer.

Additional district medical officer (Public Health) Dr Ashadevi said that there is no need to panic but the public should be cautious.

“The main cause of viral hepatitis is lack of safe water and poor sanitation and hygiene.

The disease is transmitted through ingestion of contamination water or food or when one comes into direct contact with an infected person. People should consume only boiled water and maintain personal hygiene which is the best remedy available to avoid being infected,’’ added the ADMO.