A mysterious illness continues to claim lives in Badhaal village of Kotranka Sub-Division, Rajouri, with six people currently receiving treatment for similar symptoms. The illness, which has already resulted in the deaths of 17 individuals, including 13 children, has prompted urgent quarantine measures and protests by concerned locals.
As of today, another minor girl from Badhaal village, Saima Akhtar (11), was transferred to the GMC Rajouri with symptoms similar to those of the deceased. Her condition is reportedly stable. Three other patients, including one in PGI Chandigarh and two in GMC Jammu, are also under treatment, with health officials continuing their efforts to pinpoint the cause of the illness.
In total, around 300 individuals who came into contact with the affected families have been quarantined in various facilities in Rajouri, including the Nursing College and GMC Rajouri. The precautionary measure was put in place to prevent the spread of the mysterious illness, which is suspected to involve brain damage and nervous system impairment. Toxicology tests have confirmed the presence of neurotoxins, though bacterial or viral infections have been ruled out.
Protests and Concerns:
Protests erupted today at Gujjar Mandi, Rajouri, as residents demanded that the critically ill children be airlifted to PGI Chandigarh for specialized care. Protesters alleged that the response from GMC Jammu had been inadequate, with many accusing the medical facility of poor management and delayed actions. “The situation should not be politicized. We are fighting for lives here, not for political gains,” said one protester. The local MLA, Javaid Iqbal Choudhary, has called for a medical emergency to be declared in the area to better contain the spread of the illness.
Medical Response:
Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal of GMC Jammu, confirmed that the condition of one of the patients, Nazia Kouser (16), is critical, and she is currently on ventilator support. However, the health team remains optimistic about the treatment being provided to all affected individuals. Meanwhile, authorities at GMC Jammu claimed that arrangements were made for the immediate transfer of patients to PGI Chandigarh, but the latter reportedly could not accommodate the patients due to a lack of available beds. Instead, the children were transferred to SMGS Hospital, Jammu, where their conditions are being monitored closely.
Precautionary Measures:
In response to the growing health crisis, the district administration has enacted several precautionary measures. Badhaal village has been declared a containment zone, with strict prohibitory orders in place. The homes of the affected families have been sealed to prevent any further exposure, and a central team is investigating the cause of the mysterious deaths.
About 230 samples have been sent for testing, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing the possibility of criminal elements, such as deliberate poisoning, being involved. A strict quarantine protocol has been implemented, and all those who had close contact with the affected families are being monitored and provided with food and shelter in designated quarantine centres.
Quarantine Facilities:
The quarantine facilities at the Nursing College in Rajouri have been secured with fencing and surveillance cameras to ensure the safety and well-being of the relocated individuals. All incoming individuals are thoroughly screened before being admitted to the centres. Additionally, provisions have been made for the daily needs of those in quarantine, including food and medical care.
Key Developments:
- 17 Dead: A total of 17 people, including 13 children, have died due to the mysterious illness in Badhaal village.
- 6 Ailing: Six individuals are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals, with one on ventilator support.
- 300 Quarantined: Approximately 300 individuals have been relocated to quarantine centres for observation.
- Containment Zone: Badhaal village has been declared a containment zone, and public gatherings are prohibited.
- Investigation Underway: Over 230 samples have been sent for testing, and a Special Investigation Team is probing the cause of death.
In Focus:
“Government Response and Public Outcry”
Residents of Rajouri have expressed frustration over the handling of the situation, with many questioning the preparedness of local healthcare facilities. Protesters at Gujjar Mandi have demanded immediate attention from the central government and a more effective response to the growing health crisis.
“Community Efforts Amidst the Crisis”
Despite the chaos, local authorities have assured the public that every effort is being made to contain the illness. The Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, has been actively overseeing the quarantine measures and has visited the centres to ensure that proper care is being provided.
Quote Section:
- “We are not asking for politics to be played with this issue. We are asking for lives to be saved.” – Protester at Gujjar Mandi
- “We are providing the best possible care to all patients. We are in constant touch with PGI Chandigarh for further consultations.” – Dr. Ashutosh Gupta, Principal, GMC Jammu
- “The administration is taking all necessary steps to manage the situation and prevent the spread of the illness.” – Deputy Commissioner Rajouri
