A mysterious fever has gripped seven villages in the Lakhpat and Abdasa talukas of Gujarat’s Kutch district, leading to 14 deaths, including six children. In response to the growing health crisis, the Gujarat government has swiftly mobilized specialist doctors and 50 medical teams to contain the spread and provide treatment.
Government Ramps Up Medical Support
Gujarat’s Health Minister Rushikesh Patel held a review meeting in Bhuj to assess the situation. Patel revealed that between September 3 and 10, 48 new cases of fever had emerged in the region. As a precautionary measure, the government has set up 100 isolation beds, 30 ventilators, and BiPAP machines at Adani G K General Hospital.
“We have deputed a cardiologist and two expert physicians, along with 50 medical teams led by MBBS doctors in the region for early diagnosis and treatment,” Patel said, assuring that the situation, though serious, does not resemble an outbreak like Covid-19.
Ambulances have been placed on standby to ensure quick transportation of patients to the designated hospital, which is fully equipped to manage the rising number of cases.
Investigations Into the Cause Underway
While the fever’s cause remains unclear, initial investigations have ruled out zoonotic diseases. Samples from infected patients have been sent to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) in Gandhinagar and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for further analysis.
Recent heavy rains in the region are suspected to have played a role in the fever’s spread, with some symptoms mirroring pneumonitis. The Rapid Response Team (RRT) is actively conducting in-depth investigations to trace the illness’s origin.
Despite the rising number of cases, the health department has ruled out a communicable disease outbreak, citing the absence of cluster infections. Authorities have urged residents to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear, as efforts continue to curb the spread of the illness.
