Heatwave: 8203 people developed jaundice in three months; concern looms in Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Jaundice, spread through contaminated water due to the intense summer heat, is reportedly rampant in the state. 8,203 people have fallen ill in the last three months. 17 people have died in recent times. Most people take this disease lightly and are hesitant to seek treatment.

Therefore, health experts believe the unofficial number of infected people could exceed ten thousand. In March last year, 2203 people were infected with the disease. In March this year, 3166 people were infected. Half of the deaths in the last three months occurred in March. People take treatment only after the disease gets worsened. Health experts warn that this could be life-threatening.

Hepatitis A virus affects the liver and causes inflammation of the liver. Jaundice can occur in the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those with other underlying medical conditions. Jaundice is transmitted through contaminated water sources, food and drinks prepared with unclean water, and close contact with infected people.

Therefore, extreme caution should be exercised. It is important to ensure that cold drinks are prepared with clean water. The purity of the water used to prepare the ice used in drinks is also important.