The Aryavarth Express
Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Several people reported illness in Indore on Tuesday after allegedly consuming contaminated water, prompting the health department to launch an investigation, officials said.
Chief Medical and Health Officer (CMHO) Dr Madhav Hasani said the department received alerts from multiple private hospitals about an unusual surge in patients suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea. By evening, around 32 patients had been admitted across seven to eight hospitals.
“The exact cause is not yet clear. We have collected water samples from the affected households, and the test reports are expected within 48 hours. So far, no deaths due to diarrhoea have been reported,” Dr Hasani said.
As a precautionary measure, health teams conducted a house-to-house survey on Monday, covering over 1,100 homes. ORS packets, zinc tablets, and chlorine tablets were distributed, and residents were advised to drink only boiled water. These measures continued on Tuesday, with additional medical teams deployed to examine residents, provide medicines, and spread awareness.
Preliminary findings indicate that water contamination is the likely cause of the illnesses. “There is no indication of food poisoning or a viral outbreak, and the cases are limited to one specific area. This strongly suggests contamination of the water supply, though the final report is awaited,” the CMHO added.
Dr Hasani also said all private hospitals have been instructed not to charge patients for treatment, with the state government bearing the medical expenses.
Clarifying reports of deaths, he said no fatalities have occurred due to diarrhoea or lack of treatment. “There have been reports of three deaths due to other causes. Two individuals were not in contact with the health department and died at home, while one patient, who had paralysis, died due to multi-organ failure. No patient admitted to a hospital has died,” he said.
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely while awaiting laboratory reports to confirm the source of contamination.
