The Haryana Health Department has been placed on high alert following the detection of Hepatitis-A (jaundice) cases in Sajuma village, Kalayat block, Kaithal district. A comprehensive door-to-door screening drive has been completed, and medical teams remain stationed in the village to monitor the situation and implement preventive measures to contain the infection.
37 cases reported, 23 confirmed as Hepatitis-A
According to Dr Renu Chawla, Civil Surgeon, Kaithal, a total of 1,477 residents were examined during the survey. Suspected cases and individuals complaining of abdominal pain were identified, and blood samples were collected for Hepatitis-A, Hepatitis-E, and liver function tests (LFTs) as per protocol. Through OPD screenings, 19 fresh cases were detected, bringing the total reported cases to 37. Laboratory tests have confirmed Hepatitis-A infection in 23 samples, while no case of Hepatitis-E has been detected so far.
Hospital admissions and patient condition
Currently, three patients are admitted to hospitals and under observation — one in a government hospital and two in private healthcare facilities. Dr Chawla stated that all admitted patients are in stable condition. One death has been reported, but the exact cause has not yet been established. The final report from PGI is awaited, and no death has been officially linked to the Hepatitis-A outbreak until the investigation is complete.
Preventive measures deployed
The Health Department has deployed a round-the-clock medical team and ambulance service in the village. As part of preventive measures, 10,143 halogen tablets, 200 ORS packets, and zinc tablets have been distributed among residents. Health teams are conducting awareness campaigns to educate people about hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention.
Dr Chawla appealed to residents to drink only boiled or properly treated water, maintain personal hygiene, and immediately report to the nearest health centre if they develop symptoms of jaundice or any related illness. She urged the public not to pay attention to rumours, assuring them that the department remains fully alert and the situation is under control.
