Jaundice spreads rapidly in Kochi; District Collector announces magisterial inquiry

KOCHI: District Collector has announced a magisterial inquiry into the spread of hepatitis A in Vengoor Panchayat of Ernakulam district. Moovattupuzha RDO Shaiju P Jacob has been given the charge of the investigation. The report should be submitted within two weeks.

Hepatitis A was first reported in Vengoor Panchayat on April 17th. Later, it spread, resulting in two deaths and infecting more than 40 people in the district. Currently, 15 wards of Vengur are affected.

The inquiry aims to determine the cause of death, the reasons for the spread of hepatitis A, any lapses by authorities and precautions to prevent future incidents. District Collector Umesh NSK visited Vengur Panchayat on the 9th of this month leading to the announcement of the magisterial inquiry.

The food safety department collected samples of water and ice in response to the hepatitis A outbreak. Samples from drinking water, ice and water used in roadside stalls were gathered across the district. The Food Safety Department will take necessary action based on the results. Fines have been imposed on various establishments, and notices have been issued to rectify irregularities, particularly those operating in unsanitary conditions.