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March 31, 2003

INTERNATIONAL IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Typhoid Endemic in West Kochi"

Hindu (www.thehindu.com) (03/31/03); Rajagopal, Shyama

Typhoid emerges several times a year in Kochi, India, generating concern not only among health authorities but also within Kochi Corporation and the Kerala Water Authority.  Officials are concerned that the disease will affect the mainstays of their local economy: fish exports and tourism.  In fact, some speculate that unless Kochi authorities take action soon, it is likely that international agencies will have no alternative but to impose embargoes on fish exports and tourism in the region.  A shortage of clean water, a lack of individual hygiene, and improperly conducted disease awareness campaigns are the main reasons that typhoid has gone unchecked in the region said B. Rajendran, medical director of West Side Hospital. During the last six to seven years, the number of typhoid cases increased, peaking in 1999 with an epidemic of 1,030 cases, then dropping to 795 in 2000 and rising again in 2001 with 810 cases.  In 2002, a drastic initiative brought the number of cases down to just 142, and so far this year only 60 typhoid cases have been reported.  One area physician notes that the available typhoid vaccine is expensive, provides only 80 percent protection, and cannot be given to children under the age of two years.

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