Epidemic Dropsy Outbreak in Localized Community of Haryana, India

Abstract

The outbreak of epidemic dropsy in the Indian capital, New Delhi, during the rainy season of 1998 was of one of the most severe forms and had repercussions in both health and political circles. Some 2552 cases were reported and 65 deaths occurred between 5 August and 12 October, causing untold misery and economic loss to the affected families. The actual figures are likely to be much higher due to non-reporting of milder cases to the hospitals. The aim of this article is to consolidate and update the available information on clinical aspects of epidemic dropsy.