The health department in Shimla has reported a gradual rise in cases of viral Hepatitis among children at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Zonal Hospital during the ongoing month of May. According to officials, 11 children displaying symptoms of viral Hepatitis have been admitted to the paediatric ward so far, with seven cases confirmed as Hepatitis A. Several other children with mild symptoms were treated on an outpatient basis.
Officials Address the Situation
Chief medical officer of Shimla, Dr Yashpal Ranta, stated that the cases have appeared gradually over the past month, with nearly one case being reported every day or on alternate days. He clarified that no outbreak or clustering has been detected in any specific locality, as the affected children belong to different areas across the region.
Preventive Measures Implemented
As a preventive step, health teams have been deployed in affected areas to conduct active surveillance. Their tasks include identifying additional cases, assessing sanitation and drinking water conditions, and spreading awareness about preventive measures. The department is also coordinating with other agencies to ensure safe drinking water supply and proper sanitation facilities.
Dr Ranta advised people to drink boiled or safe water, maintain hand hygiene, avoid unhygienic food, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, vomiting, jaundice, abdominal pain, or dark urine appear. These steps are crucial to prevent further spread of the infection.
The health department continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to follow recommended precautions. Early detection and treatment are key to managing viral Hepatitis effectively.
