Palakkad Health Department Sounds Alarm Over Hepatitis A Spike
The district health department in Palakkad has issued a public warning. Officials urge residents to stay vigilant due to a concerning increase in hepatitis A cases. This alert comes as the region prepares for various festivals and celebrations.
Sharp Rise in Infections Triggers Concern
Health authorities recorded 33 confirmed cases of hepatitis A in just the last eight days. This sudden surge has prompted immediate action from the department. They are now actively monitoring the situation to prevent further spread.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Hepatitis A
The department clearly outlined the main symptoms for public awareness. Infected individuals typically experience fever and persistent fatigue. Other common signs include a noticeable loss of appetite and episodes of diarrhoea.
A key indicator is the yellowing of urine, skin, and the whites of the eyes. This jaundice is a hallmark symptom of the viral infection. Early recognition of these signs is crucial for prompt medical attention.
Understanding How the Disease Spreads
Hepatitis A primarily transmits through contaminated water and food. Close personal contact with an infected person's faeces is another significant route of transmission. The virus can spread easily in crowded settings, especially during large gatherings.
Medical professionals diagnose the condition based on these symptoms. They confirm it through specific laboratory tests available at healthcare facilities.
Official Health Advisory and Precautions
In their official advisory, health officials issued clear instructions for the public. Individuals diagnosed with hepatitis A must avoid close contact with others to prevent transmission. Those showing any symptoms should also follow this strict isolation guideline.
Patients are advised to rest completely for a minimum of two weeks. This rest period should continue until the disease has fully resolved. They must avoid all strenuous physical activities during recovery.
Essential Preventive Measures for Everyone
The department emphasizes basic hygiene to curb the outbreak. A critical recommendation is to use only boiled water for both drinking and cooking purposes. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of infection.
All government hospitals in the district are offering free testing and treatment. This service ensures that financial constraints do not prevent anyone from seeking necessary medical care. Residents are encouraged to utilize these facilities if they suspect infection.
Special Caution for Festival Season
With the rise in cases, officials specifically advised extra caution during festivals. Large celebrations often involve shared food and close gatherings, which can facilitate virus spread. The public should maintain good hygiene practices while participating in these events.
The health department continues to monitor the situation closely. They promise to update the public with further guidance as needed to control this hepatitis A outbreak in Palakkad district.
