Hot weather: Chickenpox and jaundice spreading in state; 1181 cases in two weeks

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state is witnessing a rise in jaundice and chickenpox cases this summer. Over the two weeks, 1,181 persons contracted the infection. A total of 961 cases of chicken pox and 220 cases of water-borne jaundice (hepatitis A) were reported. Five people have died of hepatitis A so far this month. Three of them died before the disease was confirmed. A total of 814 people sought treatment for hepatitis A symptoms. Chickenpox is caused by extreme heat. The shortage of drinking water in summer raises the threat of jaundice. Hepatitis A is caused by consuming water contaminated with human waste.

A high number of chickenpox and jaundice cases were reported in March as well. In the previous month, 2620 cases of chickenpox and 540 cases of hepatitis A were reported. Six persons out of 1663 who sought treatment for their symptoms passed away. Two died before they were diagnosed with the disease.

While the risk of contracting chickenpox again is lower in individuals who have already had the disease, it can still be dangerous for infants and people with diabetes. The disease spreads through the air. As it is a disease caused by germs, it can spread from person to person through contact with an infected person. Jaundice is caused by the hepatitis A virus affecting the liver.