A mysterious illness that has claimed at least 17 lives in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district has been traced to organophosphorus poisoning, experts revealed. The discovery was confirmed after the Food Safety Standards Authority of India identified the toxin as the cause behind the fatalities in Badhaal village.
Authorities have administered atropine, an antidote for organophosphorus poisoning, which has shown positive results among hospitalized patients. “We have used the atropine antidote, and it has worked well. Once the exact toxin was identified, we proceeded with targeted treatment,” stated a senior health official.
Investigations Underway
The Jammu and Kashmir police have constituted a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe whether the presence of organophosphorus in food and water was accidental or deliberate. Officials discovered insecticides in a local spring, which villagers used as a water source. The spring has since been sealed for further investigation, and food samples from the area are being tested.
Health experts confirmed that the deaths were caused by neurotoxins affecting the brain and nervous system. Authorities had earlier ruled out communicable diseases, viruses, or bacterial outbreaks as potential causes.
Containment Measures
To curb further casualties, the affected village has been declared a containment zone, and over 200 residents have been quarantined. Efforts are underway to monitor the health of villagers and identify anyone showing symptoms of poisoning.
Questions Surrounding the Toxin’s Origin
Officials are investigating whether the contamination of food and water was accidental or a result of foul play. Organophosphorus compounds are commonly used in insecticides and pesticides, raising concerns about their improper use or potential misuse.
Health Advisory
Doctors and authorities are urging residents to avoid consuming potentially contaminated food and water. Medical teams are on high alert, ensuring immediate intervention in case of new cases.
The tragic deaths in Rajouri have raised alarms about food and water safety in the region, with officials working to ensure no further lives are lost. The investigation remains ongoing, and the results will determine the necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
Sources By Agencies
