City sees a rise in Hepatitis-A, diarrhoea cases

Guntur: The residents who consumed contaminated drinking water in the Ramireddythota have been suffering from Hepatitis-A and jaundice. Over 200 patients are undergoing treatment in the private hospital with jaundice. The patients are going to GGH also for treatment. Due to leaks to drinking water pipelines, drinking water is getting contaminated in the area which led to Hepatitis-A.

In a tragic incident, 22-year-old Lakshmi Lavanya, who was pregnant, died of Hepatitis while undergoing treatment at GGH two days ago.

Similarly, Shaik Ranzan Bi (42) suffering from jaundice died in the GGH while undergoing treatment. Both are residents of Ramireddy Thota in Guntur city. Ramireddy Thota is under the grip of jaundice and hepatitis for the past four days.

Regional medical Officer Dr A Ramesh said, “We are getting Hepatitis-A and jaundice cases to the GGH. Those who drink contaminated drinking water will get Hepatitis-A. The patients were administered fluids and asked to take rest and will recover within a week. There is no chance to die due to Hepatitis A.”

He urged people to approach doctors at GGH, if they were suffering from vomiting and motions. District Medical and Health officer Dr Yasmin said, “Lakshmi Lavanya died of Hepatitis-A. We are trying to trace Shaik Ranzan Bi. We have sent two Mobile Vehicles which will create awareness about diarrhoea  and Hepatitis-A in Ramireddythota. 

We are conducting door-to-door survey also. Anybody suffering from jaundice and diarrhoea should immediately contact PHCs. At present, 18 patients are undergoing treatment in the medical camp in the Chebrolu.” Dr Yasmin suggested people to take filter water.

Meanwhile, Balatripula Sundari (75) suffering from diarrhea and undergoing treatment in a private hospital died. Diarrhoea deaths rose to 17 in Guntur city.

The GMC has taken steps to replace old drinking water pipelines in the city. They have been collecting drinking water samples every day and creating awareness.