10 died, 1500 taken ill of jaundice outbreak in Biratnagar

KATHMANDU, Nepal–Ten people were died and as many as fifteen hundred people were taken ill due to Jaundice outbreak in Biratnagar, located in the eastern province of Nepal. Laboratory tests of samples taken from the jaundice hit area found that more than 90 percent of the patients are suffering from hepatitis E. The test reports show consumption of contaminated water induced waterborne infection. Experts also said consumption of water contaminated with faecal coliform is the major cause behind outbreak of the disease. Four out of 10 water samples from the jaundice-hit areas in Biratnagar contained a high level of faecal E.col, according to the tests carried out by the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL). A team of experts from the capital Kathmandu, which inspected the jaundice hit zone this week, said the city lack appropriate drainage system and cloaca could easily pass into the drinking water pipes that requires quick renovate. Over 15, 000 people have been affected since the outbreak was reported three weeks ago. Water containing more than 10 bacteria in 100 millilitre is unsafe for drinking. Skins and eyes turning yellowish are the symptoms of jaundice. According to World Health Organisation, hepatitis E is usually a self-limiting infection and resolves within 4-6 weeks. Occasionally, a severe form of hepatitis develops acute liver failure which can lead to death. Lliver specialists suggested proper hygiene and consumption of boiled food can help prevent the hepatitis E. Meanwhile, district based government officials and other health related group have raised campaign in Biratnagar to manage their waste properly.