MP child deaths: Over 3,800 screened in three tribal villages; Congress alleges toll cover-up

Balaghat, Aug 24 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh’s Health Department teams have screened 3,811 people in three villages of Balaghat district affected by various illnesses, including malaria and diarrhoea, as authorities stepped up surveillance amid a controversy over child deaths in the tribal belt.

The Opposition Congress criticised the the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government’s handling of the situation, alleging that it was concealing facts about the deaths and that the actual toll could be significantly higher.

A total of 798 cases of malaria, diarrhoea, fever with rashes and skin diseases were detected during the door-to-door health survey in Kundeksa, Korka and Bondari villages of Birsa block.

According to the government report till Sunday, 320 people were found suffering from malaria, 155 from diarrhoea, 146 from fever accompanied by body rashes and 177 from skin diseases.

Of the 798 patients identified, 569 were treated at home while 229 were admitted to hospitals. Among those hospitalised, 201 have recovered and returned home, while 28 remain under treatment.

“Twelve new patients were admitted to hospital on Sunday, while five were discharged after treatment. All the hospitalised patients were admitted as a precautionary measure and their condition is stable and out of danger,” district authorities said.

Door-to-door health surveys and treatment are continuing in the three villages, with health teams maintaining surveillance and arranging hospitalisation wherever required.

The latest figures come against the backdrop of reports of child deaths in Baiga-dominated villages in the district. The Health Department has confirmed eight child deaths in the villages.

The deaths have triggered a political controversy, with Opposition Congress leaders coming down heavily on the state government and claiming that the toll is significantly higher.

Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar had last week alleged that 19 children had died and accused the government of concealing the toll.

The exact cause of the illnesses has not yet been conclusively established. Health officials have reported symptoms linked to multiple infections, including malaria-like fever and skin infections, besides nutritional deficiencies. Blood and water samples have been sent for further examination.

Authorities said surveillance and treatment would continue as officials monitor the health situation in the villages.

— IANS

pd/snj/mr