Special Correspondent: Arun Sharma
Gurugram/Palwal: A shocking investigation into the Hepatitis-B outbreak in Chhainsa village of Palwal district has revealed that excessive consumption of caffeine-loaded energy drinks and treatment by unqualified doctors (quacks) were the primary factors behind the deaths.
According to District Magistrate Harish Kumar Vashisht, an expert medical team reviewed the cases and found that 8 out of 13 infected patients have died, while others are currently under treatment.
Key Findings of the Investigation
- Infection Spread Through Contaminated Syringes
The administration discovered that several patients had taken injections from unqualified practitioners.
The same syringe was reportedly used multiple times, increasing the risk of blood-borne infections like Hepatitis-B.
Health experts believe this unsafe practice played a major role in spreading the virus. - Heavy Energy Drink Consumption Weakened the Liver
Medical experts also observed that many affected patients were regular consumers of high-caffeine energy drinks.
Continuous consumption may have weakened liver function,
making patients more vulnerable to the virus and causing the infection to turn acute and life-threatening.
Administrative Action
Based on the investigation, the district administration has taken strict action:
FIRs have been registered against five quack doctors operating in the area.
Samples of the energy drinks consumed by patients have been sent for laboratory testing to determine possible health risks.
Health Department on High Alert
Medical teams have been deployed in the village to control the situation. Authorities are:
Conducting door-to-door health surveys
Organising special medical camps
Carrying out tests for Hepatitis-B, Hepatitis-C, HIV and liver function
Preventive medication and vaccination facilities are also being provided to residents.
Public Advisory
District Magistrate Harish Kumar Vashisht has urged residents to:
Seek treatment only from qualified medical professionals
Ensure that a new syringe is used for every injection
Avoid excessive consumption of energy drinks, especially during illness.
Officials say the administration is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further spread of the infection and ensure strict action against illegal medical practices.
