Mysterious illness kills five children in Jharkhand village

Sahibganj

A deadly outbreak resembling cerebral malaria has claimed the lives of five children in Nagarbhitha village, Sahibganj district, Jharkhand. In the last 12 days, 12 others have fallen seriously ill. Upon learning of the outbreak, a medical team arrived on Monday, setting up a health camp to provide medicines and collect samples for testing. These samples were sent to Dumka for analysis to determine the cause.

Deputy Commissioner Hemant Sati directed the Civil Surgeon to ensure proper medical care and closely monitor the situation. A village-wide survey is underway to prevent further spread.

The first victim, two-year-old Jeeta Pahariya, died on March 12 after suffering high fever and vomiting. His family, like others, initially tried herbal treatments. The victims were all from the Pahariya community, a vulnerable tribal group. The issue came to light when local leaders alerted the district administration.

Health surveillance has been increased in the area to track and respond to any new cases.