Hepatitis A Outbreak Linked to Contaminated Canal Water

Kothamangalam municipality is grappling with a hepatitis A outbreak, with 37 cases recorded between March 29 and April 24. Investigations point to contaminated water from effluent pipes discharging into a canal, part of the Muvattupuzha minor irrigation project, as the source of the outbreak. This contamination led to the pollution of the water table and nearby wells, with residents falling ill after consuming unboiled contaminated water.

Municipal authorities have launched containment efforts, including cleaning the irrigation canal, regular chlorination of water sources, and installing warning signs. Households and establishments found discharging wastewater into the canal will face fines. Health officials are also ensuring external water supply to affected households and removing effluent pipes. The area will be declared disease-free only if no new cases emerge for 90 days post the last reported case.