Hepatitis A Outbreak in Malappuram

A Hepatitis A outbreak in Kerala's Malappuram district has affected approximately 8,000 people and resulted in 12 deaths, primarily affecting children under 15 but increasingly impacting older individuals with compromised immune systems. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection transmitted through contaminated food and water. Common symptoms include jaundice, fever, and stomach pain. The infection typically resolves on its own without permanent liver damage. Prevention measures include vaccination, proper hygiene practices, and boiling water. Authorities are focusing on increasing vaccination coverage, raising public awareness, and improving water and food safety to combat the outbreak.