Child dies, 52 hospitalised after chloroquine tablets administered in anti-malaria drive

On Tuesday, a tragic incident unfolded at Gollaguppa village in Yetapaka mandal, Polavaram district, where a seven-year-old tribal girl, Madivi Jamuna, passed away after receiving a chloroquine tablet as part of an anti-malaria drive. The Integrated Tribal Development Agency's Project Officer, Subham Nokwal, confirmed her demise and stated that officials are monitoring the situation.

The health scare was triggered by five reported malaria cases in the village. In an attempt to prevent further spread, personnel from the Lakshmipuram Primary Health Centre administered chloroquine tablets to 71 people, including mostly children. According to a Public Relations Department release, 28 villagers, mostly children, were shifted to the Bhadrachalam government hospital, with their health condition not considered dangerous. An additional 24 villagers sought treatment at Lakshmipuram PHC.

Polavaram District Collector, K. Dinesh Kumar, assured that all involved are out of danger and that health conditions are stable following the administration of chloroquine tablets. Officials are actively monitoring the treatment process and the well-being of those affected.