0
0
Sahibganj, Jharkhand: A devastating outbreak of cerebral malaria has claimed the lives of five children in Nagar Bhitha village, located in the Mandar block of Sahibganj district, Jharkhand. The tragic deaths occurred over a span of eleven days, from March 12th to March 23rd, and have also left a dozen other villagers affected.
The deceased children have been identified as Jeeta Pahariya (2), Vikas Pahariya (5), Befre Pahariya (4), Etwari Pahariya (2), and Sajni Paharin (3). All belonged to the Pahariya community residing in the remote village.
According to reports, the village head of Nagar Bhitha alerted a Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) worker from Ghatiyaari village on Sunday about the escalating health crisis. Subsequently, the Deputy Commissioner was informed and promptly dispatched a team of health workers to the affected village.
The health team, comprising CHO Ravi Kumar Jatav, Nitin Chaturvedi, MPW Doman Mandal, Dinesh Kumar, BPM Aman Bhart and Shanti Lata Hembra, conducted immediate assessments, collected blood samples from 32 affected individuals (including women, men, and children), and administered preliminary medication. The collected samples have been sent to Dumka for further testing.
Civil Surgeon Praveen Sthaliy confirmed that the deaths were attributed to cerebral malaria. “A team of health workers is currently stationed in the village. On Monday, medical officers will reach the village to assess the situation. Nearby villages will also be inspected,” he stated.
Cerebral malaria, a severe neurological complication of malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite, is characterized by symptoms such as headache, vomiting, diarrhea, and unconsciousness, ultimately leading to coma and potential mortality. The World Health Organization defines cerebral malaria as a clinical syndrome involving coma, the presence of asexual forms of Plasmodium falciparum in blood smears, and the absence of other explanations for the coma.
The delay in reporting the outbreak, with villagers only informing authorities on Sunday morning despite deaths occurring since March 12th, has raised concerns about access to healthcare and awareness in the remote region.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information available at the time of writing. The situation is developing, and further investigations may reveal additional details. Medical information provided is for general knowledge and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.(https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!state/5-children-died-of-brain-malaria-in-sahibganj-village-enn25032401848)
