Investigation links fatalities to toxic contamination; authorities intensify surveillance and testing.
The death toll in the suspected milk adulteration case in Andhra Pradesh has risen to 16, with three individuals still undergoing treatment in hospitals in Rajamahendravaram. Officials confirmed that contaminated milk is the likely cause behind the severe health complications reported in the region.
Foodborne Contamination: A Serious Public Health Threat
The incident dates back to mid-February, when residents in parts of Lalacheruvu reported symptoms such as vomiting, abdominal pain, lack of urine output, and acute kidney dysfunction after consuming adulterated milk. The situation escalated with multiple hospitalisations and fatalities.
The case first came to light on February 22, after clusters of acute kidney failure cases were identified in Chowdeswaranagar and Swaroopanagar, prompting health authorities to initiate an epidemiological investigation.
Toxic Substance Identified
Laboratory findings revealed that all 16 victims died due to multi-organ failure triggered by acute renal failure. The cause was linked to consumption of milk contaminated with Ethylene glycol, a toxic substance known to cause severe kidney damage.
Medical reports indicated elevated blood urea and serum creatinine levels among the victims, pointing toward toxic exposure associated with contaminated milk intake.
Source of Contamination Under Probe
Milk supplied to over 100 families from a dairy unit in Narasapuram village under Korukonda mandal has been identified as the suspected source. Authorities immediately halted supply from the unit following initial findings.
Between February 16 and March 21, a total of 20 individuals were hospitalised. Of these, 16 died, three remain under treatment, and one has recovered and been discharged.
Response and Ongoing Investigation
Affected patients included elderly individuals and children, with several requiring dialysis and ventilator support. Emergency medical camps were set up, and surveillance measures were implemented in the impacted areas.
Rapid Response Teams comprising medical specialists, epidemiologists, and surveillance officers conducted field visits and monitored the situation closely. House-to-house surveys covering over 300 individuals were carried out, with most test results returning normal.
The Food Safety Department inspected the suspected dairy unit and collected milk and related product samples for detailed testing. Additional samples, including cattle feed and water, were also collected by the Animal Husbandry Department to rule out external contamination.
Key Highlights
- Death toll rises to 16 in milk adulteration case in Andhra Pradesh.
- Incident linked to contaminated milk supplied in affected localities.
- Ethylene glycol identified as the toxic agent.
- 20 people hospitalized; three still under treatment.
- Suspected dairy unit supply halted; investigation underway.
- Authorities deploy medical teams, conduct surveys, and collect samples.
- Police take suspected vendor into custody; forensic analysis ongoing.
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