Early findings from an official inquiry into a diarrhoea outbreak in Indore Bhagirathpura area have confirmed the presence of bacteria usually found in sewer water in drinking water samples, officials said on Thursday. This comes three days after residents rushed to hospitals with severe vomiting and diarrhoea. The confirmed death toll has now reached at least nine.
Authorities believe the infection is likely due to sewage leaking into a drinking water pipeline. However, they warned that further laboratory results needed before pinpointing the exact bacteria. More than 150 residents are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, while the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Madhya Pradesh government regarding the deaths.
‘Abnormal Bacteria’ Detected in Indore, More Results Awaited
“The initial report has confirmed the presence of abnormal bacteria usually found in sewer water that contains human waste,” said Dr. Arvind Ghanghoria, dean of Indore-based Mahatma Gandhi Medical College. “However, we are still waiting for the culture report to identify the specific bacteria. We also have not yet received stool test reports from affected patients, which will help clarify the cause,” according to media reports.
Residents started complaining about an unusual smell in their water supply on December 25, although some stated that the problem had been developing for several weeks before it worsened sharply that day. “The problems ongoing for the past few weeks but got worse on December 25,” one resident said.
Death Count Revised, Thousands Report Symptoms
Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Dubey, who is leading the investigation, mentioned that 14 deaths reported in the area, but only 9 directly linked to diarrhoea. “The other deaths were due to pre-existing health issues and an accident. One woman who died on December 21 incorrectly linked to water contamination,” he said.
Medical and Health Officer Dr. Madhav Hasani noted that water samples tested at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College laboratory confirmed that residents got sick after drinking contaminated water. “The water tainted because of a leak in the pipeline, which allowed harmful bacteria to enter the supply,” he said.
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