Child dies, 70 fall ill after taking malaria tablets in Andhra village

A seven-year-old girl tragically died and over 70 people fell ill after consuming chloroquine tablets distributed during an anti-malaria campaign in Gollaguppa village, located on the border between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has ordered an investigation and dispatched medical officials to the area.

The tablets were handed out as part of a fever-surveillance drive after a recent increase in malaria cases. Two individuals tested positive for malaria, which led to the distribution of the medication. The girl's condition worsened after taking the tablet, resulting in a significant drop in blood glucose levels and ultimately her passing.

She was transferred from a primary health centre to Bhadrachalam Area Hospital in Telangana, where she succumbed to her injuries. Among those who fell ill, 15 children are among the affected, and all patients are currently stable. The remaining 54 villagers received precautionary treatment at Bhadrachalam Area Hospital, with none experiencing critical conditions.

Officials have sent the specific batch of medication to the Vizag Forensic Laboratory for analysis. Rapid-response medical teams have arrived from Kakinada, Rajamahendravaram, and Vijayawada to assist in treating the affected population. Additionally, health professionals are conducting blood tests for around 270 residents in Gollaguppa to check for various health conditions, including sickle cell anaemia.

The authorities urge the public not to panic, assuring them that the government is closely monitoring the situation and providing required medical care.