Steps taken to prevent viral hepatitis from spreading

Nadira Gunatilleke

GAMPOLA: The number of viral hepatitis patients reported from Gampola area in the Central Province by yesterday was 291 and few cases have been reported from Nuwara Eliya.

Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry along with the Central Province Health Ministry has already taken steps to prevent the disease from spreading Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry sources said.

The sources said although steps have been taken to prevent the disease from one patient to another, contaminated water sources which caused the disease pose a great danger to the public health.

The Ministry sent a group of doctors attached to the Epidemiology Unit as soon as the viral hepatitis reported from Gampola, Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry sources said. The group of doctors will gather information and take action to control the situation.

Viral hepatitis caused by drinking contaminated water and fever, yellow colour eyes, loose motion, vomiting, are some of the symptoms. Treatment should be sought as soon as the symptoms appear. Drinking boiled water and avoiding half cooked food, and following basic healthcare measures can save people from viral hepatitis, the sources added.

Meanwhile our correspondent Asela Kuruluwansa said a group of 100 midwives and PHIs have been deployed to raise awareness among the people on the disease and they will visit each house and educate them on precautions. 3 patients had received treatment from Gampola Base Hospital so far.