East Godavari, Andhra Pradesh: A major public health tragedy has emerged in Andhra Pradesh’s East Godavari district, where 16 people have died and several others fell seriously ill after consuming adulterated milk supplied by a local dairy unit.
According to recent reports, residents of Lalacheruvu, Choudeshwarnagar, and Swarupnagar began experiencing severe health complications from the third week of February after consuming the contaminated milk.
Severe Health Complications Reported
As per reports citing Press Trust of India (PTI), victims developed symptoms including vomiting, severe stomach pain, urinary retention, and acute kidney failure shortly after drinking the milk. Many patients required immediate hospitalization, dialysis, and ventilator support.
Health officials launched an investigation after multiple cases of severe kidney failure were reported in the affected areas. Laboratory tests later confirmed that the deaths were caused by multi-organ failure resulting from acute kidney failure.
Toxic Substance Found in Milk
Authorities revealed that the milk was contaminated with ethylene glycol, a highly toxic chemical commonly used in antifreeze products. Medical experts warned that ingestion of the substance can cause severe kidney damage and can be fatal when consumed through food or beverages.
Blood tests of several patients showed significantly elevated urea and serum creatinine levels, indicating critical kidney dysfunction.
Casualties and Medical Status
Officials confirmed that between February 16 and March 21, around 20 individuals were hospitalized after consuming the milk:
- 16 people died
- 3 patients remain in critical condition
- 1 person has recovered and been discharged
The contaminated milk was reportedly supplied by a dairy unit in Narsapuram village to more than 100 families.
Immediate Government Action
Following the incident, authorities immediately halted milk distribution from the dairy unit and conducted door-to-door health surveys in affected localities to identify additional cases.
Health department officials continue their investigation to determine how the toxic chemical entered the milk supply chain, while strict action is expected against those responsible.
The incident has raised serious concerns over food safety standards and monitoring mechanisms in local dairy distribution systems.
