Palwal Health Emergency: Mystery Illness Claims Lives

A health emergency was declared in Palwal district on February 6 due to an unidentified illness that led to at least seven deaths between January 6 and February 11. Authorities have been unable to confirm the diagnosis or pinpoint the source of the outbreak, though hepatitis is suspected. The district administration and health department have initiated round-the-clock surveillance to prevent further spread, reporting that no further deaths have occurred since February 11.

Investigations are ongoing, with officials noting challenges in determining the precise cause, partly due to families not consenting to post-mortems. Preliminary findings suggest the deaths may be linked to two different diseases. To prevent future incidents, the administration plans a campaign against unqualified medical practitioners and the sale of unregulated energy drinks, emphasizing treatment from registered doctors and safe injection practices. Contaminated drinking water is also flagged as a potential risk.

Health department teams are conducting door-to-door surveys, health screenings, and awareness drives. Special medical camps offer free blood tests, consultations, and medicines, with tests for Hepatitis B, C, HIV, and liver function being conducted. A helpline number, 01275-240022, has been activated. Out of 15 reported deaths, only seven are linked to the unidentified illness; others were due to natural causes, mental health issues, or occurred outside the village. Approximately 1,024 OPD consultations have occurred, and 723 blood samples collected, with ongoing preventive measures including chlorine tablet distribution and hepatitis vaccination.