School bells, heavy rains, and high alert: Sharp rise in waterborne infections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A sharp increase in waterborne diseases across Kerala has claimed 39 lives over the last six months, prompting health officials to issue urgent public safety advisories. The fatalities have been linked to Hepatitis A, acute diarrheal diseases, and Shigella infections, with the vast majority of deaths attributed to Hepatitis A.

According to official health department data, Hepatitis A alone accounted for 31 of the 39 deaths, with 8,514 individuals seeking treatment for the virus over the half-year period. The outbreak has shown little sign of slowing down, as hundreds of new cases continue to surface. A single day recently saw 49 new Hepatitis A admissions and one fatality.

Diarrheal illnesses have seen an even more massive surge, affecting over 256,000 people in the state within the same six-month window. Six deaths have been officially tied to severe diarrhoea, four of which occurred within a single week. Daily hospital admissions remain high, with thousands seeking medical attention for gastrointestinal distress daily.

Public health officials are also closely monitoring Shigella, a highly contagious bacterial infection. The state has confirmed 163 cases of Shigella this year, resulting in two recent fatalities.

Health experts emphasise that these illnesses are primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water. Dr. Althaf, a professor of Community Medicine at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College, stressed the critical need for systemic and individual vigilance to curb the spread.

"It is absolutely vital that households consume only boiled or properly purified water. Furthermore, the implementation of modern, well-maintained septic systems is a necessity for every home to prevent groundwater contamination," Dr. Althaf stated.

Given that diarrhoea remains one of the leading causes of mortality globally among children under the age of five, the health department has issued a comprehensive list of preventative measures for the public.

Essential Preventive Guidelines:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling food and after using the restroom.
• Food Protection: Keep all food items properly covered to prevent contamination from flies and insects.
• Safe Dining: Consume food prepared in hygienic environments and ensure it is served hot.
• Waste Management: Dispose of food waste and garbage scientifically to avoid breeding grounds for pests.
• Beverage Safety: Ensure that ice used in cool drinks and juices is made from purified, safe drinking water.
• Water Treatment: Regularly chlorinate domestic wells and overhead water storage tanks to maintain water purity.

Residents have been strongly cautioned against consuming any food or beverage that exhibits an unusual taste or odour, as the state works to contain the current health challenge.