Haryana Government Notifies Amended Epidemic Disease Regulations with Strict Penalties
The Haryana government has officially notified the amended Haryana Epidemic Diseases (Malaria, Dengue, Chikungunya & Japanese Encephalitis) Regulations, 2024, introducing stringent measures to combat the persistent threat of vector-borne illnesses. These regulations, enacted under Section 2 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, will remain in effect until March 31, 2027, aiming to enhance public health surveillance and response.
Mandatory Reporting and Real-Time Monitoring
Under the new framework, all government and private hospitals, clinics, and laboratories are now legally required to report every confirmed case of malaria, dengue, chikungunya, or Japanese encephalitis to the concerned civil surgeon within 24 hours of detection. This report must include complete patient details to ensure accurate tracking. Additionally, the information must be promptly updated on the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal, facilitating real-time monitoring and enabling a coordinated public health response across the state.
Cost Caps on Diagnostic Tests and Treatments
To protect patients from exorbitant medical charges during disease outbreaks, the government has implemented specific price controls. Private hospitals and laboratories are prohibited from charging more than Rs 600 for ELISA-based NS1 and IgM tests, which are crucial for diagnosing dengue. Furthermore, private hospitals are directed not to exceed Rs 11,000 per patient for Single Donor Platelets (SDP) if required for treatment, ensuring affordability in critical care situations.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary of Health, emphasized that violations of these regulations will attract significant penalties. Hospitals or laboratories found non-compliant may face monetary fines for actions such as:
- Failing to follow approved diagnostic protocols.
- Not reporting confirmed cases within the stipulated timeframe.
- Declaring cases without proper confirmatory testing.
- Submitting incomplete patient details.
The penalty structure is tiered: a fine of Rs 1,000 for the first violation, Rs 5,000 for the second, and Rs 10,000 for the third or subsequent violations. Continued non-compliance could lead to further legal action under Section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. An appeal against any penalty can be filed within 30 days before an appellate committee headed by the civil surgeon.
This regulatory overhaul underscores Haryana's proactive approach to managing epidemic threats, prioritizing timely data collection, cost containment, and strict enforcement to safeguard community health.
