Seven people have died in Chainsa village of Palwal district between January 27 and February 11, prompting the Haryana health department to investigate a suspected jaundice outbreak.
Of the seven deaths, four were attributed to acute hepatitis or acute liver failure with hepatic encephalopathy. The deceased include children and adults aged between 9 and 65 years. All were admitted to Shaheed Hasan Khan Mewati Government Medical College in Nalhar, Nuh, where they later succumbed.
Rapid response and mass screening
According to officials, the first alert was received on January 31. A field survey was immediately conducted, followed by deployment of a rapid response team on February 1. Medical camps and door-to-door screening began the next day.
Palwal Chief Medical Officer Dr Satinder Vashisth said around 800 OPD consultations have been conducted so far. Nearly 1,500 villagers, including close contacts of the deceased, have been screened for Hepatitis A, B, C and E.
Blood samples from 210 residents were collected. Two tested positive for Hepatitis B and nine for Hepatitis C, while all samples were negative for Hepatitis A and E. Tests for scrub typhus and leptospirosis were also conducted, with no positive results reported so far.
Water contamination under scanner
Health teams collected 31 water samples from storage tanks and pipelines. Six household samples tested positive for coliform bacteria. Orthotolidine tests revealed absence of chlorine in 82 stored water samples until corrective measures were implemented. Subsequent testing showed improvement after chlorination.
Approximately 15,000 halogen tablets have been distributed for water purification. Authorities have also issued a public helpline number — 01275-240022 — for assistance.
Officials said investigation into the precise cause is ongoing, with detailed medical histories being compiled. Three patients with similar symptoms are currently stable under treatment.