Five Children Among Victims; Authorities Investigate Contaminated Drinking Water and Viral Hepatitis in Palwal Village
Palwal: Chayansa deaths, Palwal hepatitis outbreak, Haryana health probe, viral hepatitis Haryana, contaminated drinking water, jaundice deaths Palwal, liver failure cases, Haryana village health crisis
At least 12 people, including five children, have died within a span of 15 days in Chayansa village of Haryana’s Palwal district, triggering an urgent investigation by the state health department amid concerns over contaminated drinking water and the spread of infectious disease.
Health officials confirmed that the deaths, reported between late January and mid-February, were linked to severe liver-related complications. Preliminary findings suggest cases of viral hepatitis, with possible contamination of local water sources, are emerging as a key area of concern.
Jaundice Cases First Reported on January 31
The first reports of jaundice-related deaths surfaced on January 31 in Chayansa, a village with a population of approximately 5,700 residents across 865 households. Within 24 hours, authorities deployed a rapid response team to assess the situation and initiate containment measures.
Medical camps were set up in the village, and health workers began conducting door-to-door surveys and screening residents for symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and yellowing of the eyes. Water samples were also collected for laboratory testing as part of the preliminary investigation.
Seven Deaths Between January 27 and February 11
According to officials, seven of the reported deaths occurred between January 27 and February 11. At least four of these were attributed to acute hepatitis or liver failure. The victims ranged in age from nine to 65 years.
Subsequent deaths are currently under detailed medical review to determine the exact cause and whether they are directly linked to the suspected outbreak. Most patients reportedly experienced persistent fever, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and jaundice before their health rapidly deteriorated.
Health authorities have intensified surveillance in the affected area and are closely monitoring new cases. Officials stated that further laboratory reports will help confirm whether contaminated drinking water is the primary source of infection.
Residents have expressed concern over sanitation and water quality in the village, urging swift remedial measures to prevent further loss of life.
