Thirteen young children from an Anganwadi centre in Hiresani village near Ripponpet, Karnataka, fell ill on Tuesday after being administered vitamin A drops under a routine preventive health programme, raising concerns over safety measures during such drives in rural centres.
The children began complaining of stomach pain and vomiting by the evening after receiving the drops, prompting immediate medical attention. Initially taken to a private hospital for treatment, the rising number of cases led to their referral to McGann Hospital in Shivamogga for specialised care to ensure close monitoring and stabilisation.
Health Officials Respond Swiftly
Parents of the affected children reported that their kids began to fall sick soon after the administration of the vitamin A drops, suspecting a link between the dosage and their illness. Shivamogga MLA Beluru Gopalakrishna visited the hospital to assess the condition of the children and directed the medical teams to provide all necessary care without delays. The District Health Officer, along with senior health department officials, also visited the hospital to monitor the situation and oversee treatment protocols.
Doctors at McGann Hospital have confirmed that all thirteen children are stable and responding well to treatment, with plans to discharge them after a day’s observation. The MLA assured parents and local residents that the situation was under control, but emphasised that the exact cause of the illness is yet to be identified.
Investigation Underway to Determine Cause
Doctors suspect that the illness may have been caused by contaminated food, water, or a reaction to the vitamin A drops administered at the Anganwadi centre. To ascertain the cause, health authorities have collected samples of the food and water provided to the children and the vitamin A drops administered, sending them to the laboratory for testing.
The incident has led to increased scrutiny over health and safety protocols followed during routine health drives at Anganwadi centres across the state. Officials have highlighted the importance of strict monitoring and adherence to hygiene practices to prevent such incidents in future preventive healthcare initiatives. The findings of the investigation will determine the next steps in addressing potential lapses and ensuring the safety of children participating in routine health programmes.
