Gangtok and surrounding areas are witnessing a surge in Hepatitis ‘A’ cases, with 33 reported since December 1 at STNM Hospital and CRH. The Sikkim health department has launched an urgent response to curb the spread of this waterborne infection.A high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary on December 17 focused on strategies to tackle the outbreak. Key measures include: Contact Tracing: Health officials are actively identifying and monitoring individuals exposed to infected patients. Public Awareness Campaigns: Efforts are underway to educate the community about prevention, symptoms, and treatment of Hepatitis ‘A’.
Hygiene Inspections: Local eateries and food outlets are being inspected to ensure compliance with sanitation standards.Water Testing: The R.D.D. and P.H.E. departments are conducting water source sampling to detect contamination.
Residents have been advised to boil drinking water, practice regular handwashing, avoid street food, and thoroughly clean fruits and vegetables. Symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, fatigue, and abdominal pain should prompt immediate medical attention.
