A Hepatitis A outbreak is raising alarms in Avoly and surrounding panchayats in Muvattupuzha, about 47 km from Kochi. Since the first confirmed case on May 30, health authorities have identified 51 infections—21 of which are from Avoly alone.

Due to the virus’s incubation period of two to six weeks, officials anticipate more individuals showing symptoms in the coming days. A district medical team visited Avoly on Monday and instructed immediate containment measures.

Hepatitis A typically spreads through food or water contaminated with human waste. The suspected origin of the infection is a pre-wedding celebration on May 3 at a residence in Nadukkara, Avoly’s ninth ward. Over 150 guests from Muvattupuzha, Idukki, and Alappuzha attended, including local representatives, many of whom later tested positive.

Catering was handled by a vendor from Marady panchayat, who also catered a wedding event two days later. Authorities have now ordered the closure of the agency. Reports suggest that the caterers used household well water—mixed with boiled water—to prepare food and drinks, raising concerns about contamination.

Officials noted that since routine chlorination was done before May 30, water samples couldn’t be collected for testing. Items like chutney and ice cream, which often use cold water, were likely suspects.

Wells in the region are now undergoing intensified chlorination. Nadukkara ward member Selby John, however, believes ice cubes used in welcome drinks may be the real culprit. Fortunately, none of the infected individuals are seriously ill.