Hepatitis A hits E. Java villages

BONDOWOSO, East Java: The head of the provincial health office confirmed yesterday that a recent outbreak of hepatitis A affecting more than 600 villagers was the biggest in the region's history.

Antara quoted Dr. Udin M. Muslaini as saying the outbreak was caused by poor hygiene and consumption of river water contaminated with the hepatitis virus.

Eight villages in the Tapen, Wonosari and Sukosari districts in Bondowoso regency were found on March 25 to have been affected by hepatitis A. Initial studies found 86 villagers infected, but the number has since reached 632.

Udin said immediate action was needed to contain the transmission of the disease, including by placing the sick in quarantine, improving nutrition, building toilets and the provision of a clean water supply.

He also urged the local people not to pollute the river because it was also the source of water for their daily needs.

Another official, Imam Sosialis, said separately that 218 people remained hospitalized. (swe)