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An increasing number of hepatitis E cases have been reported from Mehsana near Ahmedabad and Gandhinger in Gujarat state in the east of the country.
Since September 2011, 400 cases have been recorded, according to a media report however official figures of the Health Department stand at 68 cases. The source of the outbreak is thought by locals to be contaminated drinking water from a pipeline that was damaged during the replacement of telephone cables. The pipes are being replaced by the authorities and no leaks have been identified; in the meantime water is being supplies to households by tanker.
Advice for Travellers
There is no vaccine available for the prevention of hepatitis E. As this infection is transmitted via the faecal/oral route travellers should be advised to ensure a safe supply of drinking water and to maintain a good standard of food safety and personal hygiene.
