Andhra CM orders probe after villagers fall ill post anti-malaria drive
Andhra CM Naidu orders inquiry after villagers in Gollaguppa fall ill following anti-malaria drug distribution; one death reported.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has ordered a comprehensive inquiry into an incident in Gollaguppa village, Polavaram district, where several residents fell ill after being administered anti-malaria tablets. Reports indicate a girl died following an adverse reaction to the drug chloroquine.
Late on Tuesday, the Chief Minister spoke with senior Health and Medical Department officials and the district Collector to gather details. He directed them to ensure the best possible medical care for all affected individuals.
Officials informed Mr. Naidu that medicines were distributed to 71 villagers. Of those who fell ill, 29 were admitted to the Bhadrachalam Area Hospital in neighbouring Telangana, while 24 others are receiving treatment at the Lakshmipuram Primary Health Centre.
A medical camp was set up in the village immediately after the incident came to light, and residents underwent medical examinations. Officials from the Chintoor ITDA and the police visited the Bhadrachalam hospital to check on the patients' condition. Authorities have clarified that all patients are stable and dismissed reports of two deaths as untrue.
A nine-member medical team from the Kakinada Government General Hospital has been dispatched to the area. Collector K. Dinesh said three additional specialised teams have left from Vijayawada, Rajamahendravaram, and Kakinada to assist with treatment and monitoring.