Hepatitis A cases have been rising in various parts of Kerala, causing alarm among the health authorities. Eighteen people were diagnosed with jaundice in April. Many cases have been reported in Idukki’s Kumaramangalam panchayat. Dr Jobin G Joseph, the district surveillance officer, said that strict prevention measures have been ensured in these areas. He added that polluted drinking water was the reason for the hepatitis A outbreak. The health department has urged the public to be cautious in preventing jaundice. Boiled and cooled water should only be used for drinking and cooking. People should be careful while consuming food or drinks from outside.

Effective prevention methods
Personal hygiene, eating freshly cooked meals, drinking boiled water and keeping the surroundings clean are some effective prevention methods. Meanwhile, fever, headache, exhaustion and vomiting are the primary symptoms of hepatitis A. You might also notice yellow colour in your eyes. Besides, urine is also likely to turn yellow in colour. Do not hesitate to seek medical treatment if you notice these symptoms. Hepatitis A and E will spread through unclean food and by mingling with patients. Jaundice may spread if a hepatitis patient cooks food for the family members. Those who care for the patients should was their hands thoroughly using soap and water. Patients should use separate vessels for eating food and drinking water.   

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