Most of the people who died were men over the age of 55 with existing health problems, making them more vulnerable.
In Andhra Pradesh, about 20 people have died in the last two months due to a strange, unknown illness. On Friday, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared a health emergency in Guntur district and ordered a detailed medical investigation. A special team led by Dr. Raghunandan, Director of Medical Education, visited Turakapalem village to look into the sudden deaths, health officials said.
The Chief Minister urged people who feel unwell or show unusual symptoms to immediately go to the hospital. He also instructed that health camps be held in the village over the weekend so that everyone can undergo basic tests like kidney function, blood sugar, and blood pressure. Local health profiles will also be created for better tracking.
He directed the officials to supply protected drinking water in the village. He made it clear no new case should be reported hereafter. “Officials should be vigilant 24X7 as there is a high possibility for the spread of the suspected bacterial disease through drinking water, food items, and through air.”
Meanwhile, the state govt constituted a high-level committee, led by Director of Secondary Health (DSH) Dr A Siri, to identify the officials responsible for failing to apprise higher authorities in time about the sudden spike in deaths in Turakapalem village.
Naidu said experts from AIIMS Mangalagiri and even international medical specialists should be consulted if necessary to find the cause quickly and provide the best possible treatment.
What is possibly causing the illness?
Health officials investigating the mysterious deaths in Andhra Pradesh now suspect a bacterial infection called Melioidosis may be the cause, based on initial lab findings. Melioidosis usually spreads during the monsoon or after floods. It can cause fever and cough and, in severe cases, lead to serious lung damage. Doctors say the disease is dangerous but treatable with antibiotics if caught early.
Most of the people who died were men over the age of 55 with existing health problems, making them more vulnerable. Officials have also warned that the infection could spread through contaminated water, food, or even air, and urged continuous monitoring in the affected areas.
To prevent further spread, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has instructed health teams to provide safe drinking water to villagers and remain on high alert.
