KOCHI: After the recent hepatitis outbreak in Kothamangalam where four deaths were reported, the disease is now spreading to other areas in the eastern parts of the district. Though not of epidemic proportions, still hepatitis cases are being reported from Muvattupuzha. Meanwhile, the outbreak could be effectively controlled in Kothamangalam through preventive measures, according to Dr V. N. Balagangadharan, district surveillance officer. “Though suspected cases are being reported from the area, blood samples are tested regularly and proper follow-up measures are taken,” he said.
The 9-member team from Manipal Centre for Virus Research led by Dr G. Arun Kumar which conducted a study in Kothamangalam has submitted the interim report to the health department. According to the report, contaminated water used in hotels in the area caused the outbreak of the infectious disease. The team will submit the final report soon. Meanwhile, district medical officer Dr N.K. Kuttappan told DC that though hepatitis cases were being reported from other areas including Muvattupuzha, it was not an alarming situation. The eastern parts of the district have been prone to the outbreak of diseases like hepatitis, Chikungunya and dengue fever for the past few years as these areas are highly vulnerable to vector-borne and water-borne diseases.
