A surge in typhoid cases in Gandhinagar has led to more than 100 people being hospitalised, prompting urgent action from health authorities and a high-level review by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The outbreak has raised concerns about water quality, sanitation, and the speed of the public health response in the Gujarat capital.
According to state health officials, patients began reporting symptoms including high fever, severe weakness, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal distress over the past several days. Hospitals across Gandhinagar and nearby areas have seen a steady influx of cases, with many patients requiring intravenous antibiotics and close monitoring. Doctors say while most patients are responding to treatment, a significant number remain under observation due to complications linked to delayed diagnosis.
Preliminary assessments suggest the outbreak may be linked to contaminated drinking water or food sources, though officials stressed that investigations are still underway. Samples of water from multiple localities have been collected for testing, and civic authorities have begun inspecting pipelines, storage tanks, and food establishments to identify potential sources of contamination.
Amit Shah reviewed the situation with senior state officials, health department representatives, and local administrators, directing them to ensure that no lapses occur in medical care or preventive measures. Sources said Shah emphasised rapid containment of the outbreak, adequate availability of medicines, and clear communication with the public to prevent panic.
In response, the Gujarat government has activated emergency protocols, including deployment of additional medical teams, setting up special wards, and increasing testing capacity. Municipal authorities have intensified chlorination of water supplies and launched awareness campaigns urging residents to boil drinking water, maintain hygiene, and seek medical help at the first sign of symptoms.
Public health experts warn that typhoid outbreaks often reflect deeper infrastructure issues, particularly aging water pipelines and sewage leaks that allow contamination. They have called for long-term investment in water safety and routine surveillance to prevent recurrence.
As authorities work to bring the situation under control, residents have been advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with health teams. Officials said daily monitoring will continue until the outbreak is fully contained, stressing that early treatment remains key to preventing severe outcomes.