The Ministry of Public Health announced in a statement that it was informed on April 23, 2024, by the Municipality of Kamid Al-Louz in the Western Bekaa about an outbreak of Hepatitis A cases. To date, 40 cases have been recorded by hospitals, health centers, and laboratories. Consequently, a field test was conducted to check the residual chlorine levels in the drinking water network and sources in the town. The results showed that the required level of residual chlorine to combat germs was not present. As a result, water samples were taken and sent to the water laboratory at Deir El Basha Hospital, with results pending.
The Ministry reminded citizens that Hepatitis A is a disease caused by the Hepatitis A virus. It is transmitted to humans through contaminated water, contaminated food, or dirty hands, with an incubation period ranging from 28 to 30 days after infection, and symptoms include fever and severe jaundice.
It emphasized the importance of reminding citizens of the preventive measures against Hepatitis A: water safety, chlorination of water, food safety, and hand washing. The Ministry indicated that it is monitoring the situation in coordination with the municipality, the Ministry of Energy and Water, and the water departments to ensure proper chlorination and operation of chlorination pumps to prevent the spread of Hepatitis A. It also stressed that it continues to coordinate with the Lebanese Red Cross to train municipalities on monitoring residual chlorine levels through field testing.
