Gandhinagar, Gujarat:
Health authorities in Gujarat’s capital city of Gandhinagar have stepped up surveillance and emergency response measures after 102 cases of typhoid were reported over the past two days, with most of the affected patients being children. Officials have attributed the outbreak to contamination of drinking water, likely caused by ongoing drainage repair work being carried out by the local civic body.

According to the state health department, 37 patients are currently admitted to Gandhinagar Civil Hospital, while the remaining patients are receiving treatment at various private and government hospitals. Encouragingly, officials have confirmed that no fatalities have been reported so far, though the sudden spike in cases has raised serious concerns among authorities.

Dr Nilam Patel, Additional Director in the Gujarat Family Welfare and Health Department, said the outbreak was detected following reports of children presenting with high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea and general weakness. “In total, 102 cases of typhoid have been reported so far. Most of the infected patients are children. Blood samples are being tested to confirm the diagnosis, and suspected cases are being treated promptly as a precaution,” she said.

Link to Drainage Repair Work

Preliminary investigations by health and municipal officials suggest that the outbreak is linked to contamination of drinking water pipelines due to drainage repair work currently underway in parts of Gandhinagar. Officials believe that leakages or cross-contamination between sewage lines and drinking water pipelines may have allowed bacteria to enter the water supply.

The highest concentration of cases has been reported from Sector 24, with additional cases emerging from Sector 21 and adjoining areas. Authorities have identified at least six locations where water contamination is suspected. Repair and corrective measures are being carried out on an emergency basis to prevent further exposure.

Municipal officials said that water samples from multiple points have been collected and sent for laboratory testing. “Wherever contamination is suspected, water supply is being closely monitored and corrective action is being taken immediately,” an official said.

Massive Surveillance and Door-to-Door Campaign

In response to the outbreak, the state government has launched an extensive door-to-door surveillance and awareness campaign. Dr Patel said that 63 surveillance teams have been deployed across Gandhinagar to identify new cases early and prevent the spread of infection.

“So far, around 10,000 houses have been surveyed, and nearly 38,000 people have been contacted. The teams are checking for symptoms, creating awareness about hygiene, and advising residents on preventive measures,” she said.

A rapid response team consisting of physicians, microbiologists and public health experts has also been formed. This team is closely monitoring hospitalised patients, tracking disease patterns, and advising on containment strategies.

Preventive Measures and Public Advisory

Health officials have urged residents to take strict precautions until the situation is fully under control. People have been advised to drink only boiled or properly filtered water and to consume freshly cooked home food. Street food and uncovered food items are being strongly discouraged.

To further reduce the risk, the civic body has begun distributing chlorine tablets to residents for disinfecting household water tanks. “Cleaning of overhead and underground water tanks is crucial at this stage. Chlorine tablets are being distributed free of cost in the affected areas,” officials said.

Hospitals and primary health centres have been instructed to remain on high alert, ensure adequate availability of antibiotics and fluids, and report any new suspected cases immediately.

Government Monitoring at the Highest Level

The seriousness of the situation is reflected in the level of government involvement. Union Home Minister Amit Shah took stock of the outbreak on Saturday and spoke to the Gandhinagar district collector three times over the phone to review the evolving situation. According to officials, Shah is expected to take another review later in the day.

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi visited Gandhinagar Civil Hospital on Saturday to assess treatment arrangements and meet health officials. He said the government was fully committed to containing the outbreak and ensuring the safety of residents.

Principal Secretary (Health and Family Welfare) Rajeev Topno also assured that all necessary steps were being taken. “The situation is under close watch. Our priority is to ensure that patients recover quickly and that no new cases emerge. We are coordinating closely with the municipal corporation and district administration,” he said.

No Casualties, Situation Under Control for Now

While the sudden rise in typhoid cases has caused concern, health authorities have emphasised that early detection and prompt treatment have helped prevent serious complications. Most patients are reported to be stable and responding well to treatment.

Officials remain cautiously optimistic but stressed that vigilance will continue over the coming days. “Typhoid is preventable if water safety and hygiene are maintained. With coordinated efforts from health teams, civic authorities and public cooperation, we are confident the outbreak can be contained,” a senior official said.

For now, residents of Gandhinagar have been urged to remain alert, follow health advisories strictly, and report any symptoms such as prolonged fever, stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhoea to the nearest health facility without delay.