Pandemic of Diarrhea in Piparad, MP: Over 167 Villagers Fall Ill After Drinking Contaminated Tap Water

Khargone, MP: A health scare has gripped Piparad village in the Bhikangaon sub-division of Khargone district, Madhya Pradesh, as over 150 villagers have fallen ill due to suspected consumption of contaminated tap water. The local administration and health authorities have rushed teams to contain the situation and provide immediate medical assistance.

Survey and Response
According to SDM Akanksha Karothiya, officials from the Health, Public Health Engineering (PHE), Revenue, and Panchayat Departments conducted a door-to-door survey of affected households. Out of 464 homes surveyed, 167 residents reported symptoms including nausea, loose motions, and abdominal pain. Most patients received treatment on the spot, while 10 individuals with severe symptoms were admitted to the government hospital in Bhikangaon, where their condition remains stable.

Precautionary Measures
The authorities have restricted the use of water from the village’s main wells and are supplying clean water via tankers. Water samples from wells, household taps, and village water tanks have been collected for laboratory testing. Stool and swab samples from affected villagers have also been taken to determine the exact cause. Officials suspect the outbreak is linked to contaminated water due to simultaneous onset of symptoms among residents.

Villagers Speak Out
Villagers reported that the health issues began after consuming tap water. Local resident Gangabai said, “The entire village has been affected for the past three days, and the problems started immediately after drinking the tap water.”

Health Department on Alert
CMHO Daulat Singh Chauhan confirmed that the problem started on Monday, intensified on Tuesday and Wednesday, but all patients are now in stable condition. He warned that the outbreak appears to be linked to a water supply issue and urged villagers to take precautions until the water is confirmed safe.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and have appealed to villagers to avoid consuming untreated water and report any new cases immediately.