Kochi: Jaundice cases reported in Kalamassery have been traced to contamination in well water. The infection has been linked to individuals who attended a housewarming celebration at the affected house. Thirteen people have been confirmed to be infected with jaundice, including two adults and a child who are in critical condition and undergoing treatment at a private hospital.

A meeting was held today in Kalamassery, attended by Minister P. Rajeev and the Chairperson of the Kalamassery Municipal Council, to address the outbreak. Rajeev announced that a special camp will be organized in the affected areas to manage the situation.

In total, 13 individuals in wards 10, 12, and 14 of the Kalamassery Municipality have been confirmed to have jaundice, while more than thirty people are showing symptoms of the disease. Ten cases, including two children, have been confirmed in Peringazha in ward 10, which, along with ward 12, has reported the highest number of infections.

The Municipal Health Department convened an emergency meeting to implement preventive measures and curb the disease's spread. Since jaundice is a water-borne disease, the Food Safety Department and Municipal Health Department have intensified inspections at shops selling ice and soft drinks. Efforts are also underway to urgently purify water sources.