Milk Vendor Detained in Rajahmundry After Elderly Woman Dies from Suspected Anuria
In a concerning public health incident, police in Rajahmundry took a milk vendor into custody on Sunday after a 75-year-old woman died due to alleged anuria, a condition characterized by the inability to pass urine. The death occurred at the Government General Hospital (GGH) in Kakinada, sparking fears of milk adulteration in the region.
Multiple Hospitalizations and Suspected Adulteration Link
As many as four additional individuals have been admitted to hospitals with complaints of anuria, all reportedly supplied milk by the same vendor. While it has not been definitively established that these cases are linked to adulterated milk, medical professionals strongly suspect that contaminants in the milk may be the cause. The police have initiated a thorough investigation based on allegations from local residents about adulteration in the milk they consumed and the sudden emergence of anuria symptoms.
Details of the Fatal Case and Medical Response
The deceased, identified as T Krishnaveni, a 75-year-old resident of Lalacheruvu area in Rajahmundry, was initially admitted to GGH Rajahmundry on February 18 with symptoms including vomiting and urine obstruction. After abnormal lab reports, she was transferred to GGH Kakinada, where she succumbed to the condition on Sunday. Following the spread of news about anuria in Lalacheruvu, a medico-legal case was registered, and her body was returned to GGH Rajahmundry for a post-mortem examination.
Dr. Komala, Superintendent of GGH Kakinada, stated that the exact cause of death will only be determined after the post-mortem results are available. Similarly, Dr. PVV Satyannarayana, Superintendent of GGH Rajahmundry, emphasized that they are awaiting the post-mortem report to confirm the death's cause.
Additional Death and Health Department Alert
In a related development, another woman, Kanaka Rathnam (70), died in the hospital on February 20 with similar symptoms. However, Dr. Ventateswara Rao, the District Medical and Health Officer (DM&HO) of East Godavari, clarified that her death was not attributed to anuria, noting that her family confirmed she had other pre-existing ailments.
Meanwhile, the East Godavari district health department has been placed on high alert as anuria cases have emerged in specific areas of Rajahmundry. Dr. K Venkateswara Rao reported that KIMS hospital management registered four anuria cases from Choudeswari Nagar and Swaroop Nagar areas under Lalacheruvu. A surveillance officer has immediately begun an inquiry.
Comprehensive Investigation and Preventive Measures
Under the directives of East Godavari District Collector Keerthi Chekuri, a rapid response team has been established to conduct a comprehensive epidemiological and clinical inquiry. Samples of food, water, and stool have been collected and sent to laboratories for forensic examination to identify any contaminants. This proactive approach aims to prevent further cases and ensure public safety.
The incident highlights critical concerns about food safety and adulteration in the region, with authorities working diligently to uncover the truth and hold responsible parties accountable.
