Lagatar24 Desk
Srinagar: The cause behind the “mystery illness” in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri, which led to the deaths of at least 17 people, has been identified as cadmium toxin. Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the finding, addressing the panic and fear that had gripped Budhal village over the past month.
Cause Identified: Cadmium Toxin
Tests conducted at the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, Lucknow, detected cadmium in the bodies of the victims. Mr. Singh clarified that no virus, bacteria, or other infections were found in the samples. “How cadmium entered the body is still under investigation,” he said, adding that any possible foul play would be uncovered.
Cadmium, a highly toxic metal, can lead to severe health issues when ingested or inhaled. It is often linked to polluted air or the consumption of contaminated food and water.
Neurotoxin Impact and Brain Damage
Earlier, health experts suggested that the deaths were caused by neurotoxins leading to brain swelling (edema). Dr. A.S. Bhatia, Principal of Government Medical College (GMC), Rajouri, noted that brain damage was a common condition among the victims, making recovery difficult once the damage occurred.
Samples were tested at renowned laboratories, including the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Institute of Virology, Pune, confirming the presence of neurotoxins.
Containment and Quarantine Measures
To curb the spread, the district administration has declared Budhal a containment zone. Over 200 people in contact with the victims’ families have been quarantined, with many relocated to Nursing College, Rajouri, for better care.
GMC Rajouri has enhanced its medical capabilities, deploying additional child specialists and anesthesiologists to manage the crisis.
Government Response
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently visited Rajouri, assuring citizens that central and state authorities are working diligently to address the crisis. An inter-ministerial team formed by the Union Home Ministry is probing the unexplained deaths to determine how the cadmium contamination occurred.
