Investigation of an Outbreak of Hepatitis'E' in a Rural Area of Dhule District in Maharashtra

Background: There were many cases with symptoms, suggestive of hepatitis in Ner village of Dhule district during 2012. Aims: To investigate and control the outbreak of hepatitis in a village community. Material and Methods: The cases were identified by a survey in the community. The suspected cases were interviewed by a pre-defined & structured schedule. Those identified cases were clinically examined and confirmed by serological & biochemical laboratory tests. An environmental study of the drinking water supply system including testing of water samples from different points in the distribution system was also conducted in the area. The outbreak control measures such as IEC drive, chlorination of drinking water and repair of the water supply lines were initiated. Results: The outbreak gave rise to a total of 180 cases in the community. Predominantly adolescents & young adults were affected with almost equal proportions in males & females. No mortality was observed. The outbreak was due to contamination of drinking water pipeline with faecal matter. Conclusion: A large outbreak of Hepatitis E involving 180 cases occurred in a rural community which subsided after initiating the control measures.