Patiala: A Patiala locality has reported 27 suspected cases of jaundice and 10 confirmed cases of Hepatitis A, putting health authorities on high alert. Blood samples from residents of Dogra Mohalla, near Sirhindi Gate, were tested at the IDSP laboratory at Mata Kaushalya Hospital. One person has also tested positive for Hepatitis E, intensifying concerns over potential drinking water contamination.
Affected Area and Demographics
Officials said the affected area comprises roughly 243 households with a population of nearly 1,119. Those identified during field checks range from four to 48 years old, and five people remain hospitalised.
Health Department Response
The health department has ramped up surveillance, conducting door-to-door checks for the third consecutive day. To assess water safety, five initial samples were taken for H2S testing, and 15 additional samples have been sent for detailed laboratory analysis. Final results from the state laboratory in Kharar are still awaited.
ASHA and ANM teams have been deployed to visit homes, track symptomatic individuals, and educate residents on prevention. Households are being provided with chlorine tablets for water purification and ORS packets to prevent dehydration. A dedicated medical camp has also been established to facilitate early testing and treatment.
Investigation Ordered
In response to the outbreak, Patiala deputy commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal has ordered a thorough investigation, appointing additional deputy commissioner (urban development) Navreet Kaur Sekhon to lead the inquiry. The municipal corporation has been directed to inspect drinking water pipelines and repair any leaks allowing sewage to seep into the supply.
Political Criticism
The situation has drawn political criticism. Punjab BJP Mahila Morcha president Jai Inder Kaur accused the AAP government, local representatives, and civic bodies of ignoring repeated complaints regarding sewage mixing with the drinking water supply.
