Sporadic cases of Hepatitis surface in Shopian, Authorities launch containment measures

SHOPIAN: Authorities in South Kashmir’s Shopian district have reported approximately 70 sporadic cases of hepatitis infections, prompting swift containment measures.

The cases have been detected across different areas of the district, with no specific location showing a concentration of infections.

Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Shopian, Dr. Arshad Hussain Tak, told Rising Kashmir that the situation is under control.

“We have reported around 70 sporadic cases over the past few days,” he said, adding that teams are actively surveying, collecting water and blood samples, and providing treatment and health education.

Dr. Tak explained that the infection, which is waterborne and transmitted through the faecal-oral route requires immediate precautions, including consuming only boiled or chlorinated water and practicing proper hand hygiene.

He said that a public health advisory has been issued asking to maintain cleanliness and urges residents to boil their drinking water for at least 20 minutes before consumption.

The advisory recommends covering all water containers, avoiding stale food and water, and practicing regular hand washing, particularly before meals and after using the toilet.

To further prevent the spread of hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis A and E, the administration has launched a district-wide cleanliness and chlorination drive. Under the guidance of the District Development Commissioner (DDC) Shopian, the Jal Shakti Department, along with local authorities, conducted extensive sanitation operations at water supply reservoirs and filtration plants.

Tehsildars and other officials closely monitored the operations, ensuring that thorough chlorination and desiltation were carried out to eliminate contamination and maintain water quality.

Hepatitis A and E typically resolve within four to eight weeks, with symptoms including mild fever, nausea, abdominal pain, jaundice, and dark urine. (RK)